Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Pakistan Cricket has recently been marred by a series of depressing events, and the latest setback is a significant one. After a disappointing performance in the two-match Test series against South Africathe Pakistan team was penalized for a slow over-rate during the second Test match. This punishment does not only include a fine but also a reduction in value World Test Championship (WTC) points.which adds to their miseries.
The end of a terrible series for Pakistan
Pakistan entered the Test series against South Africa with high spirits after clinching the ODI series. However, their confidence was quickly eroded as they faced a narrow defeat in the first Test, followed by a humiliating 10-wicket defeat in the second Test. This loss was especially painful as it marked their second straight defeat in the series, handing South Africa a clean sweep.
In the second Test, Pakistan’s players were bowled in five overs, leading to a fine of 25% of their match fee and a deduction of five WTC points. Penalties are imposed on Richie Richardson from the ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees after the assessment of the on-field umpires Kumar Dharmasena and Nitin Menonwith the third umpire Alex Wharf and a fourth umpire Stephen Harris. Shan Masoodthe captain, took responsibility for the team’s slow over-rate, which has been an ongoing issue 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 over-rated issues
This is not the first time that Pakistan has faced penalties for slow over-rates. As early as 2023, they were docked points during a Test against australian and again in August 2024 during a home series against Bangladesh. These recurring issues highlight a troubling trend that must be addressed if Pakistan hope to improve their standing in international cricket.
ICC regulations state that teams are fined 5% of their match fees for each one over the required number. Additionally, for each extra short, one WTC point is deducted from the team’s total. With these sanctions now stacked against them, Pakistan’s position in the WTC standings has become precarious.
Dismal performance by Pakistan in the second Test
The second Test against South Africa was uneventful for Pakistan. After being put into bat after South Africa’s first innings big score of 615 runs, Pakistan struggled to make an impact in their batting lineup. 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 ended with South Africa chasing just 58 runs without losing any wickets, sealing their victory and confirming their place in the WTC final against Australia. This crushing defeat not only shows Pakistan’s poor performance but also raises questions about their readiness and strategy going forward.
