Star South African batter Heinrich Klaasen has found himself in the spotlight after being fined by the International Cricket Council (ICC) for breaching their Code of Conduct during the ongoing ODI series against Pakistan. The ICC imposed a fine of 15% of his match fee, coupled with a demerit point added to his disciplinary record, following a Level 1 violation of Article 2.2 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel.
The penalty was issued after Heinrich Klaasen, in frustration, kicked the stumps upon his dismissal during the second ODI. The incident drew attention despite Klaasen’s otherwise stellar performance in the match. Chasing a formidable target of 330 runs, Klaasen displayed remarkable resilience, scoring a brilliant 97 off 74 balls.
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However, his efforts fell short as the Proteas were bowled out for 248, handing Pakistan a comprehensive 81-run victory. The ODI series has been challenging for South Africa, as Pakistan has dominated with back-to-back victories. In the first ODI in Paarl, Pakistan edged out a narrow three-wicket win.
South Africa’s Heinrich Klaasen has been fined 15 percent of his match fee for kicking the stumps after being dismissed in the 2nd ODI against Pakistan in Cape Town.#klaasen #SavPak #CapeTown #Fined #ICC pic.twitter.com/XAiPJoiyx3
— chalchitra (@chalchitra11) December 21, 2024
In the second ODI in Cape Town, Pakistan’s innings was anchored by Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam, who scored 80 and 73 runs, respectively, leading their team to a commanding total of 329. Their bowling attack, spearheaded by Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah, then dismantled South Africa’s batting lineup.
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As the teams gear up for the third and final ODI at The Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg on Sunday, December 22, Pakistan will aim for a clean sweep, while South Africa will be eager to salvage a consolation win. Both sides are expected to bring their best to the table, making the series finale a thrilling contest.