Fakhar Zaman Fined for Showing Dissent During Tri-Series Final Against Sri Lanka

Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman has been fined 10% of his match fee and handed one demerit point for breaching Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct during the tri-series final against Sri Lanka on November 29. The ICC confirmed that Fakhar violated Article 2.8, which relates to showing dissent at an umpire’s decision during an international match.

The sanction came after an incident in the 19th over of Sri Lanka’s innings. Fielding at short third, Fakhar back-pedaled and dived to complete what initially appeared to be a brilliant catch off Dasun Shanaka’s leading edge. However, after reviewing the footage, the third umpire ruled that the ball had brushed the ground before Fakhar completed the catch, deeming it not out. The decision visibly frustrated both Fakhar and bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi, who expressed their displeasure to the on-field umpires.

On the very next delivery, Shanaka was bowled while attempting a cross-bat swipe. Fakhar reacted by looking toward the umpire and offering a sarcastic appeal—an act that contributed to the charge. The Pakistan batter accepted the offence and the proposed sanction from the match referee, eliminating the need for a formal hearing.

Pakistan went on to win the final convincingly by six wickets. Sri Lanka, after a steady start, suffered a dramatic collapse, losing nine wickets for just 30 runs to finish on 114. In response, Babar Azam anchored the chase with an unbeaten 37, guiding Pakistan to victory in 18.4 overs.

This marks Fakhar’s first offence within a 24-month period. Under ICC regulations, Level 1 breaches carry penalties ranging from an official reprimand to a fine of up to 50% of a player’s match fee, along with one or two demerit points.