Afghanistan all-rounder Gulbadin Naib has been fined 15% of his match fee for breaching Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct during the second T20I against Zimbabwe in Harare, the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced.
Dissent Towards Umpire’s Decision
The incident occurred during the 11th over of Zimbabwe’s innings when Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan’s LBW appeal against Tashinga Musekiwa was turned down. Gulbadin Naib reacted by bowing in mock prayer and gesturing for a review, despite the unavailability of the Decision Review System (DRS) in the match.
Naib’s actions were deemed a violation of Article 2.8 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which prohibits “showing dissent at an umpire’s decision during an international match.” Along with the fine, a demerit point was added to Naib’s disciplinary record—his first offence in a 24-month period.
Naib Accepts the Sanction
The former Afghanistan captain admitted to the offence and accepted the penalty proposed by Match Referee Andy Pycroft. This acceptance avoided the need for a formal hearing.
Match Recap: Afghanistan’s Dominant Win
Afghanistan won the toss and elected to bat, setting a target of 153/6. Darwish Rasooli and Azmatullah Omarzai provided stability with a crucial partnership, while Naib and skipper Rashid Khan added valuable runs in the final overs.
Zimbabwe’s bowlers Trevor Gwandu and Ryan Burl impressed with two wickets each but couldn’t restrict Afghanistan to a chaseable total.
In response, Zimbabwe struggled against Afghanistan’s bowling attack. Despite efforts from Sikandar Raza and opener Brian Bennett, the team lost momentum after their dismissals. Naveen-ul-Haq and Rashid Khan led the charge with three wickets each, while Mujeeb Ur Rahman took two in his spell. Zimbabwe were bowled out for 103 in 18 overs, handing Afghanistan a convincing 50-run victory.
Player of the Match and Series Status
Darwish Rasooli was named ‘Player of the Match’ for his vital contribution with the bat. With the series tied 1-1, both teams will face off in the decider on Saturday, December 14, at Harare Sports Club.
