Zimbabwe has been penalized with a 10 percent deduction from their match fees due to a slow over-rate during a T20I match against Afghanistan. The captain, Sikandar Raza, accepted the charges, while Afghanistan secured the series victory. The two teams are set to compete in subsequent ODIs and Test matches.
Zimbabwe has faced penalties for maintaining a slow over-rate during their recent T20 International match against Afghanistan in Harare. The players will incur a 10 percent deduction from their match fees as a result of this offence. The match concluded with Afghanistan securing victory by three wickets in a closely contested low-scoring game. The sanctions were instituted by the match officials, including on-field umpires Iknow Chabi and Forster Mutizwa, alongside third umpire Percival Sizara and fourth umpire Langton Rusere.
Sikandar Raza, the captain of the Zimbabwean side, has acknowledged his guilt regarding the slow over-rate and has accepted the imposed penalties, which were determined by Emirates ICC Elite Panel Match Referee Andy Pycroft. According to Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct, players are penalized by a five percent reduction in their match fees for each over that is not bowled within the stipulated time frame.
Zimbabwe is currently hosting Afghanistan for a comprehensive tour, which commenced with a series of three T20 matches. The host nation successfully secured the victory in the opening encounter. However, Afghanistan subsequently triumphed in the following two matches, thereby clinching the series. The teams are set to compete in three One Day Internationals, followed by a pair of Test matches.
The issue of slow over-rates is a significant concern in cricket, often leading to disciplinary actions against teams that fail to adhere to the time constraints imposed during matches. The ICC Code of Conduct aims to ensure that matches proceed in a timely manner, enhancing the overall experience for players and spectators alike. In this instance, Zimbabwe’s slow over-rate resulted in fines being levied against the team, highlighting the importance of maintaining the required pace of play in international cricket.
The recent fine imposed on the Zimbabwean cricket team due to their slow over-rate against Afghanistan serves as a reminder of the strict regulations governing player conduct and match management in international cricket. As Zimbabwe continues their tour hosting Afghanistan, it is crucial for the players to comply with the established timeframes to avoid further penalties and ensure competitive integrity.
Original Source: www.icc-cricket.com
