Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman Penalised for Code of Conduct Breaches in Asia Cup Clash Against Sri Lanka

Afghanistan spinners Noor Ahmad and Mujeeb Ur Rahman have each been handed one demerit point for separate breaches of the ICC Code of Conduct during their Asia Cup 2025 match against Sri Lanka on Thursday in Abu Dhabi.

According to an ICC release, Noor was found guilty of breaching Article 2.8, which deals with “showing dissent at an umpire’s decision during an international match.” The incident occurred in the 16th over of Sri Lanka’s innings when Noor reacted visibly after one of his deliveries was called a wide by the on-field umpire.

Mujeeb, meanwhile, was charged under Article 2.2 for “abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment or fixtures and fittings during an international match.” The spinner had broken the stumps using his towel in frustration during the game.

The charges were brought by on-field umpires Asif Yaqoob and Virender Sharma, third umpire Faisal Afridi, and fourth umpire Rohan Pandit. Both players admitted to the offences and accepted the proposed sanctions from match referee Richie Richardson, avoiding the need for formal hearings.

These breaches are classified as Level 1 offences, the least severe under the ICC's disciplinary framework. Accumulating four or more demerit points within a 24-month period can lead to suspension points and potential bans.

Afghanistan’s campaign in the Asia Cup ended with a six-wicket defeat to Sri Lanka in this match. Despite the result, both Noor and Mujeeb managed to pick up a wicket each.

The Afghan side will now look to regroup ahead of upcoming international fixtures, with player discipline likely to be a focus in the team’s post-tournament review.