Pakistan and Sri Lanka Sanctioned for Slow Over-Rates in ODI Tri-Series Opener

Pakistan and Sri Lanka have faced fines following their slow over-rates in Sunday's opening game of the ODI tri-series at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Pakistan players were fined 10 per cent of their match fees, while Sri Lanka players received a five per cent penalty.

Match referee Jeff Crowe handed down the punishments after reviewing the time taken by both teams to complete their overs. Pakistan failed to bowl two overs within the required time, while Sri Lanka fell short by one over after the allowed time adjustments were made.

The ICC's Code of Conduct states that teams must pay a fine equal to five per cent of their players' match fees for every over they fail to complete on time. This rule falls under Article 2.22, which covers slow over-rate offences by players and team support staff.

Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi and Sri Lanka skipper Kusal Mendis admitted to the slow over-rate offences and accepted the fines, meaning no formal hearings were needed.

The charges were brought by on-field umpires Asif Yaqoob and Wayne Knights, third umpire Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid and fourth umpire Faisal Afridi.

For the unversed, Pakistan got off to a winning start in the ODI tri-series, beating Sri Lanka by 37 runs on Sunday, October 18.

Salman Ali Agha was the standout performer for the hosts, hitting 107 from 90 balls after Sri Lanka captain Kusal Mendis opted to bowl first. His knock helped Pakistan reach 305 before being bowled out in 49.5 overs, which was definitely a good score on Pindi’s pitch.

From the bowling perspective, Eshan Malinga took four wickets for Sri Lanka, while Asitha Fernando finished with three scalps.

Coming out to chase the target, Sri Lanka got off to a steady start, but lost their way in the middle due to which they made just 268 in 48 overs. Pavan Rathnayake kept the visitors in the contest with 79 runs, while Janith Liyanage added 60. The two shared a 119-run stand for the fifth wicket, putting pressure on Pakistan before the home side's bowlers turned things around.

Shaheen Shah Afridi led the attack with three wickets for 55 runs, while Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf and Faheem Ashraf picked up two wickets each to bowl Sri Lanka out for 268.

Meanwhile, Salman Ali Agha received the Player of the Match award for his brilliant hundred, which proved decisive in Pakistan's opening win of the tri-series.