PAK vs NZ: ICC Fines Khushdil Shah 50% of Match Fee for Code of Conduct Breach Violation vs New Zealand

Pakistan all-rounder Khushdil Shah has been penalized with a 50 percent match fee fine and three demerit points for violating the ICC Code of Conduct during the opening T20I of the five-match series against New Zealand.

On March 16, during the third ball of the eighth over, Khushdil made a run toward mid-on. While sprinting between the wickets, he unintentionally bumped into Zak Foulkes, who had his back turned and was focused on the ball. Khushdil’s left shoulder made contact with Foulkes, but thankfully, neither player was injured. After the over, the on-field umpire took a moment to speak with Khushdil.

Khushdil Shah Faces Suspension Threat if Penalized Again

This was the first infraction for the 30-year-old in a 24-month span. If he picks up one more demerit point within the next two years, he could face a suspension of either one Test match, two ODIs, or two T20Is, whichever comes first.

In the opening T20I of the series, the left-handed batsman emerged as Pakistan's leading run-scorer as the team recorded their lowest T20I total against New Zealand. He came in during the fifth over, at a time when Pakistan was struggling at 11 runs for four wickets, and was lucky to benefit from a dropped catch early on.

Khushdil didn't manage a four, but he hit three sixes including two in succession off New Zealand captain Michael Bracewell. His innings came to an end in the 13th over, when pacer Jacob Duffy claimed his wicket. The southpaw departed after scoring 32 runs from 30 balls. Pakistan were bowled out for 91, and New Zealand chased down the target with nine wickets in hand, finishing the game with 59 balls remaining.

Reflecting on the performance, captain Agha Salman said during the post-match presentation:

"It was difficult, we weren't up to the mark, but we need to regather (ahead of Dunedin). They bowled really well, in great areas, there was a bit of seam movement as well. We will sit down, have a chat and think about the next game. We had three debutants, the more games they play, they'll learn more. The new ball does a bit in New Zealand, we've good bowlers and we'll look to do well in the next match."