The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made headlines recently with a series of fines imposed on cricketers for various on-field and off-field incidents.
Shaheen Shah Afridi Fined for Obstruction in ODI Against South Africa
In February 2025, fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi was fined 25% of his match fee during an ODI match against South Africa held in Karachi. The fine stemmed from an incident where Afridi was found guilty of obstructing South African batter Matthew Breetzke while he was attempting a run. This on-field misconduct led to a confrontation that caught the attention of umpires and the match referee. Afridi accepted the charges under the PCB’s Code of Conduct, which strictly prohibits intentional interference with opposing players, thus avoiding a formal disciplinary hearing. This incident highlights the PCB’s commitment to upholding fair play and sportsmanship in international cricket.
Saud Shakeel and Kamran Ghulam Fined for Provocative Celebrations
Also in February 2025, Saud Shakeel and Kamran Ghulam were each fined 10% of their match fees for their inappropriate celebration following the dismissal of South African batter Temba Bavuma. The PCB’s match officials determined that the players had celebrated too aggressively near Bavuma, which was viewed as an attempt to provoke or intimidate the dismissed player. This violation of the PCB’s Code of Conduct emphasizes the importance of maintaining sportsmanship and discipline on the field.
Aamir Jamal Fined PKR 1.4 Million for Political Message
In an unprecedented move, Aamir Jamal faced a hefty fine of over PKR 1.4 million for displaying a political slogan during a training session. Jamal was spotted with “804,” which is associated with former Prime Minister Imran Khan, written on his hat. While Jamal did not violate ICC regulations as he did not display the message during a match, the PCB imposed this fine under clause 2.23 of its Code of Conduct, which prohibits inappropriate comments regarding sensitive matters, including politics. This action may serve as a warning to other players regarding their conduct in relation to political issues.
Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, and Abdullah Shafique Fined for Team Curfew Violations
In March 2025, cricketers Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, and Abdullah Shafique were fined PKR 50,000 each by the PCB for breaching team curfew during Pakistan’s tour of Australia in late 2024. The PCB enforces strict discipline to maintain player fitness and team unity, and breaking curfew can result in financial penalties. The acceptance of fines by the players showcases the seriousness of the PCB’s commitment to maintaining professionalism and discipline among its squad.
Sufiyan Muqeem, Abbas Afridi, and Usman Khan Fined for Disciplinary Violations
Additionally, in March 2025, players Sufiyan Muqeem, Abbas Afridi, and Usman Khan were fined by the PCB for breaching team protocols during the team’s tour of South Africa. While the specific details of their violations were not disclosed, this highlights the PCB’s zero-tolerance approach toward disciplinary infractions.
Conclusion:
These incidents reflect the PCB’s unwavering dedication to maintaining discipline, sportsmanship, and professionalism within the Pakistani cricket team. With the increasing scrutiny of player behavior, ensuring adherence to the Code of Conduct will be crucial for the integrity of the game.
