Pakistan star batter Babar Azam has received a punishment from the International Cricket Council (ICC) for his angry reaction during the recently concluded ODI series against Sri Lanka. The incident adds an unexpected twist to what was otherwise a successful series for the former Pakistan captain.
Babar Azam Fined for Hitting the Stumps in Anger
Babar had a tough start to the tri-series opener against Zimbabwe in Rawalpindi, where he got out for a duck. Pakistan still won the match by five wickets, but the batter’s frustration carried over from the previous series.
The ICC has now fined Babar for an outburst during the third ODI against Sri Lanka. The moment took place on November 16 in the 21st over of Pakistan’s chase. Leg-spinner Jeffrey Vandersay bowled a delivery that beat Babar’s defence and uprooted his off stump.
Babar lost his cool after the dismissal. He hit the stumps in anger before walking back to the pavilion. Match officials reviewed the incident and found him guilty of breaching Article 2.2 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel. The rule deals with “abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment or fixtures and fittings during an International Match.”
The ICC imposed a 10 per cent fine on his match fee and added one demerit point to his record. It is his first demerit point in the last 24 months.
Pakistan Seals Clean Sweep Despite the Incident
Despite Babar’s moment of frustration, Pakistan went on to dominate the Sri Lanka series. The team won the third ODI comfortably and secured a 3-0 series win. Babar played a major role across the three matches.
He scored 165 runs in the series, the same as the opening batter Fakhar Zaman. But Babar finished with a much better average of 82 compared to Fakhar’s 55. He also ended his long century drought by scoring his 20th ODI hundred in the second game. This landmark ton helped him equal Saeed Anwar’s record for the joint-most ODI centuries by a Pakistani batter.
Discipline Concerns Rise Despite Strong Form
While Babar’s batting form has returned, the incident has raised concerns about player discipline in high-pressure situations. Pakistan have several major assignments coming up, including the Champions Trophy at home. Analysts believe that emotional control will play a key role for senior players as the team rebuilds under new leadership.
Former cricketers have also pointed out that experienced players set the tone for younger teammates. Babar’s act has sparked discussions on the need for mental conditioning sessions and stronger behavioural guidelines in the dressing room.
Team insiders say that Babar remains committed to improving his conduct. His strong showing in the Sri Lanka series confirms that his focus on performance remains intact despite the brief lapse in judgment.
