Shakib Fined and Reprimanded for Dangerous Throw in Rawalpindi Test
Bangladesh’s star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has been fined 10% of his match fee and handed a demerit point for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during the Rawalpindi Test against Pakistan. The incident occurred on the fifth day when Shakib, preparing to bowl, noticed that Pakistan’s Mohammad Rizwan was not ready and engaged in a conversation with wicketkeeper Litton Das. As Rizwan turned back, Shakib threw the ball in a way that narrowly missed Rizwan’s head, prompting an on-field reprimand by Umpire Richard Kettleborough.
ICC Code Violation and Penalty for Dangerous Play
The match referee, Ranjan Madugalle, found Shakib guilty of violating Article 2.9 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which addresses the inappropriate or dangerous throwing of a ball or equipment near another player. Shakib accepted the charges and the proposed penalty without a formal hearing. The charges were brought forward by umpires Kettleborough, Adrian Holdstock, Michael Gough, and Rashid Riaz. This marks Shakib’s first demerit point in the last 24 months. Under ICC rules, accumulating four or more demerit points within that period could lead to suspension points and potential bans from international matches.
Shakib’s Legal Troubles Add to Growing Scrutiny
Despite Shakib’s significant performance in the Rawalpindi Test, where he delivered impressive bowling figures, his off-field controversies continue to overshadow his cricketing career. Shakib is currently under legal scrutiny in Dhaka for his alleged involvement in a murder case linked to student protests that played a role in the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government, during which Shakib served as a Member of Parliament. The recent demerit point further adds to the challenges he faces, with any future breaches within the next two years likely to have severe consequences for his international career.
