Shaheen Shah Afridi, Pakistan’s star pacer, got into problems during a high-stakes confrontation with South Africa in the ODI tri-series. The Lahore Qalandars captain was penalized for intentionally hitting South African batsman Matthew Breetzke. Acting fast, the International Cricket Council (ICC) issued a monetary fine and a demerit point.
When Breetzke tried a run in the 28th over of South Africa’s innings and was stopped by Afridi, a verbal altercation ensued, and physical contact followed. Related to unacceptable physical contact with a player, the incident was judged to have violated Article 2.12 of the ICC Code of Conduct.
Shaheen Shah Afridi’s aggression is nothing new in the cricket world, and it was on full display against South Africa. The scenario grew more intense after Matthew Breetzke swung his bat following a defensive stroke. In answer, Afridi came at him aggressively, starting tension between the two athletes. Afridi stepped in Breetzke’s direction just one delivery after he began to run, causing an unfortunate crash.
Along with South African captain Temba Bavuma, the umpires had to step in to calm down the tirade. Afridi was given a demerit point and fined 25% of his match fee. The pacer passed up suspension, though, so he could play in Pakistan‘s next game against New Zealand. The ICC ruling confirmed its attitude against unsportsmanlike conduct and guaranteed field discipline.
Shaheen Shah Afridi was not the only Pakistani player penalized on Wednesday (February 12). Saud Shakeel and Kamran Ghulam were also reproved for their behavior. The two players broke Article 2.5 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which bans any gestures or activity that might incite an offensive response from a batter. The duo celebrated too near Temba Bavuma following his dismissal in the 29th over.
Consequently, Shakeel and Ghulam received a demerit point and were fined 10 percent of their match fees. Recognizing the need to keep decorum on the field, the players accepted their penalties and gave regretful statements. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) also guaranteed that future games would not see such behavior again.
Notwithstanding the disciplinary measures, the game featured Pakistan’s sensational batting performance. Chasing a huge 352 runs, the team set their best-ever run chase in ODI history. Pakistan guaranteed their spot in the tri-series final thanks to important knocks by Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha.
Shaheen Shah Afridi’s performance remains a question mark, but his feud with Matthew Breetzke did generate a few highlights. The left-arm fast bowler is struggling for wickets recently, but his feud will give him the fuel to perform in the tri-series final against New Zealand. For more fearless sports coverage, visit Stadium Rant.
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