Babar Azam learns Punishment after breaching Code of Conduct against Sri Lanka

Add as a preferred source on Google

Pakistan star Babar Azam has been handed a 10 percent fine on his match fee for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during the third ODI against Sri Lanka in Karachi.

The right-hander was penalized for striking the stumps with his bat in frustration after being dismissed, an act classified under Article 2.2 of the ICC Code, which prohibits the abuse of cricket or ground equipment during an international match.

The incident took place in the 21st over of Pakistan's innings when Babar, having made 34, was bowled by leg-spinner Jeffrey Vandersay. Match officials Alex Wharf and Rashid Riaz (on-field umpires), Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid (third umpire), and Faisal Afridi (fourth umpire) reported the offence, while Ali Naqvi of the Emirates ICC International Panel of Match Referees imposed the sanction.

Along with the fine, Babar received one demerit point-the first on his record within a 24-month period. As he admitted the offence and accepted the match referee's decision, no formal hearing was required.

Despite the minor disciplinary setback, Babar played a pivotal role in Pakistan's dominant 3-0 series win, finishing as the leading run-scorer with 165 runs, including his 20th ODI century. Pakistan now turn their focus to the upcoming home T20I tri-series featuring Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe, beginning Tuesday.

Babar also recently became the fifth Pakistan player to score 15,000 international runs for his country. The star batter was going through a rough patch but in the recent matches, Babar has shown encouraging form, reinstating himself back in the T20 fold as well.