Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reversed its decision to fine cricketer Azam Khan for waving the Palestinian flag during the National T20 Cup match.
Azam Khan was fined 50% of his match fees violating the alleged ICC laws of political sloganeering on-field during the match. The decision was heavily criticized on social media by cricket fans and supporters.
Netizens believed that cricketers have the right to express their support for the people of Gaza and Palestine. There is widespread support for Gaza and Palestine in Pakistan.
The nation is expressing solidarity with Gaza and Palestine on social media as well. A large number of people are boycotting Israeli products in Pakistan. Netizens are appreciating the decision of the PCB to revert the fine on Azam Khan.
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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.
Read more: Batsman Azam Khan penalized 50% of match fees for showcasing Palestinian flag
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.
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.