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Pakistan Cricket has been marred recently by a series of discouraging events, and the latest setback is significant. After a disappointing performance in the two-match Test series against South AfricaThe Pakistan team was penalized for slow overspeeding during the second Test match. This penalty not only includes a fine but also a deduction of crucial expenses. World Test Championship (WTC) Pointsaggravating their problems.
The aftermath of a disastrous series for Pakistan
Pakistan entered the Test series against South Africa in high spirits after clinching the ODI series. However, their confidence quickly evaporated as they faced a narrow defeat in the first Test, followed by a humiliating 10-wicket defeat in the second Test. This loss was particularly painful as it marked their second consecutive loss in the series, giving South Africa a big victory.
In the second Test, Pakistan’s players fell short by five overs, leading to a fine of 25% of their match fees and a deduction of five WTC points. The sanctions were imposed by Richie Richardson from the ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees after an evaluation by the on-field referees Kumar Dharmasena and Nitin Menontogether with the third referee Alex Pier and fourth referee Stephen Harris. Shan Masoodthe captain, accepted responsibility for the team’s slow over-pacing, which has been a constant problem for Pakistan throughout the WTC cycle.
Also READ: Pakistan captain Shan Masood breaks silence on controversial DRS decision in SA vs PAK 2nd Test
A pattern of overvaluation problems
This is not the first time Pakistan has faced sanctions for slow surcharges. In early 2023, they were deducted points during a test against Australia and again in August 2024 during a home series against Bangladesh. These recurring issues highlight a worrying trend that must be addressed if Pakistan hopes to improve its standing in international cricket.
ICC regulations state that teams are fined 5% of their match fees for each game that does not reach the required number. Additionally, for each short over, one WTC point is deducted from the team total. Now with these sanctions stacked against it, Pakistan’s position in the WTC rankings has become precarious.
Pakistan’s dismal performance in the second test
The second Test against South Africa was nothing short of disastrous for Pakistan. After being put into bat following South Africa’s massive score of 615 runs in the first innings, Pakistan struggled to make an impact with their batting line-up. Despite Masood’s commendable effort with a score of 145 runs in the second innings, he lacked support from his teammates, leading to another disappointing result.
The match concluded with South Africa chasing just 58 runs without losing any wicket, sealing their victory and confirming their place in the WTC final against Australia. This crushing defeat not only reflects badly on Pakistan’s performance but also raises questions about its preparedness and strategy for the future.
