Pakistan’s cricket team has been fined for a slow over-rate during the second ODI against New Zealand in Hamilton. The team bowled one over less than the required number, leading match referee Jeff Crowe to impose a fine. Each player will lose 5% of their match fee as a penalty.
New Zealand won the match by 84 runs. Pakistan’s captain, Muhammad Rizwan, accepted the punishment without requesting a formal hearing.
This is the second match in a row where Pakistan has been fined for not completing their overs on time. In the first ODI, they were two overs short, which also resulted in a penalty.
The final match of the series will take place on Saturday in Mount Maunganui. Pakistan will need to improve their over-rate to avoid further fines.
Slow over-rates are a concern in international cricket, as they delay the game and affect its flow. Teams are expected to complete their allotted overs within a set time, and failing to do so can lead to penalties.
Some experts believe that such fines do not have a big impact on players but serve as a warning to improve their game management. Others suggest that repeated offenses could lead to stricter punishments, such as suspensions for captains.
Pakistan’s team will likely focus on managing their bowling time better in the final match to avoid another penalty. Fans will be watching closely to see if the team can bounce back and level the series.
