The ICC has fined Pakistan 5% of their match fee for maintaining a slow over-rate in their Champions Trophy 2025 opener against New Zealand. Match referee Andy Pycroft imposed the penalty after Pakistan, led by skipper Mohammad Rizwan, was found one over short of the required target despite time allowances.
Under Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct, teams are fined 5% of their match fee per over when falling behind schedule. Rizwan accepted the sanction, avoiding a formal hearing. The charge was filed by umpires Richard Kettleborough, Sharfuddoula, Joel Wilson, and Alex Wharf.
Pakistan’s Opening Defeat
New Zealand defeated Pakistan by 60 runs in their opening match at Karachi’s National Bank Stadium. The Blackcaps set a target of 321, powered by Will Young (107) and Tom Latham (118*). Pakistan’s chase faltered early, with Babar Azam (64) and Fakhar Zaman (24) providing brief resistance. Khushdil Shah (69) and Salman Agha (42) fought back late, but Pakistan fell short.
Mitchell Santner and Will O’Rourke took key wickets as New Zealand claimed victory, topping Group 1 with two points. Pakistan, now fourth, faces a crucial must-win game against India next.
