The New Zealand vs. Pakistan T20 series has kicked off on a high note for the host team, with New Zealand dealing Pakistan a resounding defeat in the first T20 match. This came after Pakistan’s dismal performance, marked by a rather unsavory incident involving their all-rounder player, Khushdil Shah, who was subsequently fined by the International Cricket Council (ICC). The ICC stated in their statement that Khushdil Shah was found to have breached Article 2.12 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which pertains to “inappropriate physical contact” with any player, player support personnel, umpire, match referee, or any other person (including spectators during an international match). As a result, the ICC imposed a 50% fine on his match fee and added 3 demerit points to his record.
This incident occurred during Pakistan’s batting in the 8th over, when Khushdil Shah made physical contact with New Zealand bowler Zakary Foulks from behind. Khushdil accepted the charges levied by the umpires and match referee Jeff Crow, thus eliminating the need for a formal hearing. Along with the fine, Khushdil Shah also accumulated 3 demerit points. It’s worth noting that if a player accumulates 4 or more demerit points within a 24-month period, these points are converted into suspension points. Two suspension points result in a ban from 1 test or 2 T20s or 2 ODIs (whichever comes first). This incident marks Khushdil Shah’s first offense within this 24-month timeframe.
The second T20 match between New Zealand and Pakistan was scheduled to start at 6:45 AM IST but was delayed due to rain. As of the latest update, the toss for this match had not yet taken place. The excitement is palpable as fans wait for the game to commence, eager to see how the series unfolds. With the previous match setting the tone, it will be interesting to observe how Pakistan recovers from their initial loss and whether New Zealand can maintain their momentum. The dynamics between the teams are certainly on everyone’s radar, especially with the added layer of discipline and conduct coming into play after Khushdil Shah’s incident. As the series progresses, it’s not just the cricketing skills that will be under scrutiny but also how players conduct themselves on and off the field.
