Pakistan’s cricket team faced a double blow during their ongoing tour of New Zealand, with all-rounder Khushdil Shah accepting a 50% match-fee fine from the International Cricket Council (ICC) for a breach of conduct. The incident occurred during the first T20I in Christchurch on March 16, 2025, casting a shadow over an already challenging day for the Men in Green. Shah, a dynamic middle-order batsman and occasional spinner, has opted not to challenge the sanction, bringing a swift resolution to the matter.
The episode took place in the ninth over of Pakistan’s innings at Hagley Oval, when Shah, racing to complete a run, collided forcefully with New Zealand fast bowler Matt Henry. The ICC deemed the contact a violation of Article 2.12 of its Code of Conduct, which prohibits “inappropriate and deliberate physical contact” during play. Replays showed Shah’s elbow jarring into Henry’s ribs as the bowler moved to field the ball, prompting a stern reaction from the Kiwi camp. Umpires stepped in to defuse tensions, and Shah was later charged by match officials. Pakistan’s Khushdil Shah
In addition to losing half his match fee, Shah has been docked three demerit points—his first such infraction in the past two years. According to ICC rules, four or more demerit points within 24 months could trigger a ban, placing Shah under scrutiny moving forward. Match Referee Ranjan Madugalle, overseeing the series, leveled the penalty, which Shah accepted without pushing for a hearing.
The fine compounded Pakistan’s woes in a match they’d rather forget. Batting first, they were skittled for just 87 runs—their second-lowest T20I total— with Shah’s gritty 28 offering fleeting resistance. New Zealand’s seamers, spearheaded by Tim Southee (3/12) and Ben Sears (2/19), dominated proceedings before the hosts cruised to victory in 11 overs, sealing a crushing eight-wicket win.
With the series opener in the books, Pakistan now trails 1-0 as they head to Auckland for the second T20I. For Shah, the incident marks a rare misstep in an otherwise promising career, and he’ll be eager to let his bat do the talking in the coming games. As the team licks its wounds, fans hope this setback fuels a spirited comeback rather than lingering as a distraction.
