Pakistan’s challenging tour of New Zealand ended on a disappointing note as the team was penalized yet again for maintaining a slow over-rate, marking their third consecutive breach in the ODI series. This time, the side was found to be one over short during the third ODI in Hamilton and was fined 5% of their match fees, compounding the woes of what has been a forgettable tour.
The ICC confirmed the fine, citing a violation of Article 2.22 of its Code of Conduct, which relates to minimum over-rate offences. According to the regulations, players are fined 5% of their match fee for each over their side falls short, after considering the allocated time and permissible allowances.
A Pattern of Repeated Offences
This latest infraction is Pakistan’s fourth in their last five ODIs—highlighting an ongoing issue with over-rate management. They were also fined during the opening game of the 2025 Champions Trophy against New Zealand in Karachi, where the same rule was breached.
Captain Mohammad Rizwan accepted responsibility for the latest offence. Match referee Jeff Crowe imposed the penalty following the assessment of the match officials, which included on-field umpires Chris Brown and Paul Reiffel, third umpire Michael Gough, and fourth umpire Wayne Knights.
Poor Performances Across Formats
The over-rate issues have overshadowed a tour that was already marred by poor performances. Pakistan lost the T20I series 4-1 before being swept 3-0 in the ODIs.
In the first ODI in Napier, they were again fined for being two overs short during a heavy 73-run defeat. The second ODI was no better: Pakistan fell short by 84 runs, with New Zealand piling up 292 for 8 and later bowling out the visitors for just 208. A similar fine followed after that match.
In the final ODI at Mount Maunganui, rain reduced the game to 42 overs per side. New Zealand posted 264 for 8, and despite a half-century from Babar Azam, Pakistan was bowled out for 221. Ben Sears starred with the ball, claiming five wickets to seal the series sweep for New Zealand.
Off-field Drama Adds to Pakistan’s Miseries
Adding to the on-field frustrations was an incident involving Pakistan batter Khushdil Shah and some spectators. The altercation, which occurred during the third ODI, escalated to the point that two spectators were removed from the venue.
“Discipline on All Fronts Needs to Improve”
A former Pakistan cricketer, speaking on condition of anonymity, shared concerns about the team’s discipline. “It’s not just about batting and bowling anymore—teams are expected to maintain professionalism in every aspect, including over-rates. Repeated fines reflect poorly on the team.”
With another ICC fine on their record and a string of losses, Pakistan’s tour of New Zealand is certain to prompt some serious introspection. For a side that continues to battle inconsistency and off-field distractions, discipline and time management will need to be prioritized going forward.
As the team regroups for upcoming assignments, fans and management alike will hope for a turnaround—not just in performance, but in professionalism.
