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Pakistan Cricket has been hit by a series of discouraging events recently, and the latest setback is a significant one. After a disappointing performance in the two-match Test series against south africathe Pakistani team has been penalized for slow speeding during the second test match. This penalty includes not only a fine but also a significant deduction World Trials Championship (WTC) points.adding to their problems.
The aftermath of a disastrous series for Pakistan
Pakistan entered the Test series against South Africa with high spirits after clinching the ODI series. However, their confidence quickly evaporated when they suffered a narrow defeat in the first Test, which was followed by a humiliating 10-point loss in the second Test. This defeat was particularly painful as it marked their second consecutive loss in the series, handing South Africa a clean sweep.
In the second Test, Pakistan’s players fell short by five overs, resulting in a fine of 25% of their match fees and a five-point deduction from the WTC. He imposed the sanctions Richie Richardson of the ICC’s Elite Panel of Match Referees following an evaluation of field umpires Kumar Dharmasena i Nitin Menonalong with the third referee Alex Wharf and fourth referee Stephen Harris. Shan Masoodthe captain, accepted responsibility for the team’s slow overs, which has been a constant problem for Pakistan throughout the WTC cycle.
READ also: 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 that Pakistan has faced penalties for excessive slow rates. In early 2023, points were docked during a test against Australia and again in August 2024 during a home series against Bangladesh. These recurring problems highlight a worrying trend that needs to 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 over that falls short of the required number. In addition, for each short, one WTC point is subtracted from the team’s total. With these sanctions now piling up, Pakistan’s position in the WTC standings has become precarious.
Pakistan’s dismal performance in the second Test
The second Test against South Africa was disastrous for Pakistan. After being put into bat following South Africa’s massive first innings score of 615 runs, 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 a 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 their preparedness and strategy going forward.
