Pakistan, Bangladesh Penalized for Slow Overs in Rawalpindi Test

Pakistan and Bangladesh were penalized for slow over rates during the first Test match in Rawalpindi. Pakistan was docked six WTC points and fined 30% of their match fee for being six overs behind schedule. Bangladesh was docked three WTC points and fined 15% of their match fee for being three overs behind schedule.

The first Test match between Pakistan and Bangladesh in Rawalpindi concluded with a resounding victory for the visitors, but the match was marred by controversies regarding slow over-rates. Both teams were penalized with fines and World Test Championship (WTC) point deductions for failing to maintain the required pace of play.

Pakistan, the hosts, were found to be six overs short of their target, leading to a hefty penalty. They lost six valuable WTC points, a significant blow in the race for the championship, and were fined 30 percent of their match fee. This is not the first instance of Pakistan being penalized for slow over-rates, as they were previously docked two points during the Perth Test in 2023.

Bangladesh, on the other hand, were deemed to be three overs short, resulting in a deduction of three WTC points and a 15 percent fine of their match fee. This marks the first instance of Bangladesh receiving such penalties in the current WTC cycle. The penalties were imposed according to the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which stipulates fines for every over a team fails to bowl within the allotted time.

In addition to the over-rate penalties, Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan faced an individual sanction. He was fined 10 percent of his match fee and received a demerit point for a Level 1 breach of the ICC Code of Conduct. The incident occurred during Pakistan's second innings when Shakib threw the ball in an inappropriate manner towards Mohammad Rizwan, the batsman, who was not ready to face the delivery. This marked Shakib's first offence within the 24-month period over which demerit points accumulate.

The penalties levied against both teams and Shakib Al Hasan highlight the importance of adhering to the ICC's regulations regarding over-rates and player conduct. These penalties serve as a reminder that maintaining the required pace of play and exhibiting respectful behavior on the field are crucial aspects of the game. The incident also raises concerns about the impact of slow over-rates on the overall enjoyment and flow of the game, particularly for spectators and fans.

Source: Pakistan, Bangladesh docked WTC points for slow overrates in Rawalpindi