Pakistan’s campaign in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy began on a disappointing note as the defending champions suffered a 60-run defeat against New Zealand in their tournament opener at the National Cricket Stadium in Karachi on Wednesday. The situation worsened on Thursday when the International Cricket Council (ICC) penalised Pakistan for maintaining a slow over-rate during the match.
#### Slow Over-Rate Penalty
Following the loss to New Zealand, where Pakistan failed to chase down a target of 321, the team was found to be one over short of the required rate after time allowances were considered. On-field umpires Richard Kettleborough and Sharfuddoula, third umpire Joel Wilson, and fourth umpire Alex Wharf levelled the charge. Match referee Andy Pycroft imposed the sanction, resulting in a five per cent deduction of the match fee for the entire team. With Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan pleading guilty to the offence, no formal hearing was required.
In accordance with Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, players are fined five per cent of their match fee for every over their side fails to bowl within the allotted time.
#### Upcoming Clash Against India
The Rizwan-led side will next face their arch-rivals India on Sunday at the Dubai International Stadium. A victory is crucial for Pakistan to stay relevant in the Champions Trophy, as a loss would virtually eliminate them from the tournament.
#### Fakhar Zaman Ruled Out
Adding to Pakistan’s woes, opener Fakhar Zaman has been ruled out of the Champions Trophy due to an injury sustained while fielding in the first over against New Zealand. The ICC Event Technical Committee, which includes Wasim Khan, Usman Wahla, Sarah Edgar, and former South African cricketer Shaun Pollock, approved the inclusion of Imam-ul-Haq as his replacement.
Pakistan will need to regroup and strategize effectively to overcome these setbacks and perform well in their upcoming matches.
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