Pakistan Penalized for Slow Over Rate in Champions Trophy Opener
Pakistan’s frustration grows as they not only suffered a defeat but also faced a penalty. The hosts have been fined for maintaining a slow over rate in their opening Champions Trophy match against New Zealand.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) confirmed the sanction on Thursday, stating that Pakistan fell one over short of the required rate. As a result, the team has been fined five percent of their match fees.
Match referee Andy Pycroft imposed the penalty, which Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan accepted without contest, eliminating the need for a formal hearing.
The Champions Trophy kicked off in Karachi on Wednesday, with Pakistan beginning their title defense on the wrong foot. They lost to New Zealand by 60 runs, adding to their woes.
Pakistan’s next challenge is the high-voltage clash against arch-rivals India, set for Sunday in Dubai. They will then face Bangladesh in their final group-stage match on Thursday.
