Babar Azam, the Pakistani batting star, has been penalized by the International Cricket Council (ICC) for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during the third ODI against Sri Lanka in Rawalpindi on Sunday. The incident has resulted in Azam being docked 10 percent of his match fee and receiving one demerit point on his disciplinary record, marking his first offense in the last 24 months.

The ICC's sanction stems from a Level 1 breach of Article 2.2 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which pertains to the "abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment or fixtures and fittings during an International Match". The specific incident occurred in the 21st over of the match when Azam, after being bowled out by Sri Lankan spinner Jeffrey Vandersay for 34 runs, struck the stumps with his bat before leaving the crease.

The charge was formally confirmed by on-field umpires Alex Wharf and Rashid Riaz, third umpire Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid, and fourth umpire Faisal Afridi. Babar Azam accepted the sanction proposed by Ali Naqvi of the Emirates ICC International Panel of Match Referees, thereby eliminating the need for a formal hearing.

According to the ICC, Level 1 breaches carry a minimum penalty of an official reprimand, and a maximum penalty of 50 percent of a player's match fee, along with one or two demerit points.

This incident follows shortly after Azam broke a two-year century drought in the series, achieving a match-winning unbeaten hundred in the second ODI, which helped Pakistan secure a commanding lead in the three-match series. While the fine might seem minor, it arrives amidst a series of instances where the Pakistan cricket team has faced penalties. In April 2025, the team was penalized for a slow over-rate offence in the ODI series against New Zealand, incurring a fine of five percent of their match fees for each over they fell short. A similar incident occurred during the 2023 Cricket World Cup, where the team was fined for maintaining a slow over-rate against South Africa.

These repeated infractions highlight the importance of adhering to the ICC's Code of Conduct, which sets the standard for player behavior and ensures fair play. While Azam's acceptance of the sanction indicates a willingness to take responsibility for his actions, it also serves as a reminder for players to maintain composure on the field, even in moments of frustration.