ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has come under scrutiny for imposing heavy fines on national team players for what many consider minor disciplinary breaches.
As per detail, since the Multan Test against England in October last year to the South Africa series, Pakistani cricketers have collectively been fined approximately 3.3 million rupees for various infractions.
The heaviest penalty was imposed on all-rounder Aamer Jamal, who was fined 1.4 million rupees for writing “804” on his cap during a Test match. The inscription, though seemingly harmless, led to disciplinary action under PCB’s strict code of conduct.
Other players faced fines for late returns to the team hotel. During the Australia tour, Salman Ali Agha, Saim Ayub, and Abdullah Shafique were each fined 500,000 rupees for arriving late at night at the hotel.
Similarly, during the South Africa series, Sufiyan Muqeem, Usman Khan, Abbas Afridi, and an unnamed fast bowler were fined $200 each for being just two minutes late to the hotel.
However, in a surprising twist, the PCB later refunded the $200 fines to the players after Pakistan completed a clean sweep against South Africa in the ODI series, a gesture that raised eyebrows over the board’s disciplinary logic.
The strict enforcement of discipline and hefty fines have sparked debate in cricket circles, with some questioning whether PCB’s approach is justified or excessive
