Lahore, Sept. 15: Pakistan have been docked 11 World Test Championship points and fined 50 per cent of their match fees after being found guilty of maintaining a slow over rate during the final Test against England.
The sanction followed Pakistan’s failure to complete the required number of overs within the stipulated time after allowances were taken into account. England went on to win the match by eight wickets, completing a series whitewash.
The disciplinary action adds to Pakistan’s difficulties following a disappointing Test campaign. The loss not only ended the series without a victory but also resulted in a significant deduction from their World Test Championship tally.
Slow over rates remain a major concern in international Test cricket as the International Cricket Council continues to enforce penalties designed to ensure matches are completed within the scheduled timeframe.
The 11-point deduction could prove important in the wider championship standings, where every point can influence a team’s position and prospects of progressing towards the final.
Pakistan will now need to address both their on field results and match management issues as they continue their World Test Championship campaign.