Sarfraz, Pakistan fined for slow over-rate

Pakistan were fined for a slow over-rate during their rousing nine-wicket win over hosts England in the first Test at Lord’s, an International Cricket Council media release informed.

Pakistan won the match on the fourth day on Sunday to go one-up in the two-match series.

Jeff Crowe of the Elite Panel of ICC match referees imposed the fine after skipper Sarfraz Ahmed’s side was ruled to be three overs short of their target when time allowances were taken into consideration.

In accordance with Article 2.5.1 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Players Support Personnel, which relates to minor over-rate offences, players are fined 10 per cent of their match fees for every over their side fails to bowl in the allotted time, with the captain fined double that amount.

As such, Sarfraz has been fined 60 per cent of his match fee, while his players have received 30 per cent fines. If Pakistan commit another minor over-rate breach in a Test within 12 months of this offence with Sarfraz as captain, it will be deemed a second offence by Sarfraz and he will face a suspension.

The second Test will start from June 1 in Leeds.