Karachi Whites’ middle-order batsman, Azam Khan, has incurred a 50% fine on his match fees for violating clothing and equipment regulations during the National T20 tournament in Karachi. The breach involved displaying an unapproved logo, specifically Palestine’s flag, on his bat during a match against Lahore Blues, where he scored 35 runs.
The match referee, Mohammad Javed, summoned Azam after the game, and it was confirmed by a reliable source that the batter was fined as a consequence. Azam had reportedly been cautioned by the referee earlier not to exhibit the unapproved logo, as it would contravene the ICC code of conduct, to which the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is a signatory.
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Sources revealed that Azam claimed to have the same stickers on all his bats when questioned by the referee. However, the ICC’s regulation on clothing and equipment prohibits players from displaying messages related to political, religious, or racial activities or causes.
A PCB official confirmed that Azam was charged for violating clothing and equipment regulations. It was also disclosed that Azam had the same sticker on his bat in two previous National T20 Cup games, but no warnings were issued before the recent match.
This incident echoes a similar situation in October, where Pakistan’s cricket team expressed solidarity with Palestinians during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, displaying support and sharing prayers for those affected by the Israel-Palestine conflict. Despite objections from Indian fans and cricket experts, the PCB defended the players’ actions, asserting that it was a personal decision to express solidarity.
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