Pakistan’s premier batter Babar Azam has been fined 10% of his match fee for violating the ICC Code of Conduct during the final ODI against Sri Lanka in Rawalpindi. The International Cricket Council said the former captain was found guilty of breaching Article 2.2, which pertains to the abuse of cricket equipment, clothing or ground fixtures during an international match.
The incident occurred in the 21st over of Pakistan’s innings when Babar, visibly frustrated after being dismissed, struck the stumps with his bat before leaving the field. Match officials charged him on the spot, and a single demerit point has been added to his disciplinary record — marking his first offence within the last 24 months.
Babar, who scored 34 off 52 balls before falling to Jeffrey Vandersay, accepted the sanction proposed by match referee Ali Naqvi, eliminating the need for a formal hearing. The charge was upheld by on-field umpires Alex Wharf and Rashid Riaz, as well as third umpire Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid and fourth umpire Faisal Afridi.
Under ICC regulations, Level 1 offences carry penalties ranging from an official reprimand to a fine of up to 50% of the match fee, along with one or two demerit points.
Despite Babar’s dismissal and the subsequent disciplinary action, Pakistan concluded the series on a high note, sealing a 3–0 sweep over Sri Lanka with a six-wicket victory at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
