Middle-order batsman Azam Khan has been fined 50% of his match fees for breaking clothing and equipment rules during the National T20 tournament in Karachi. While playing for Karachi Whites, Azam displayed the Pàlès-tine flag on his bat, leading to the penalty. After scoring 35 against Lahore Blues, he was summoned by match referee Mohammad Javed.
Despite a previous warning not to showcase the unapproved logo, Azam explained that all his bats had the same stickers. The ICC code of conduct prohibits players from displaying messages with political, religious, or racial undertones.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed Azam’s violation, stating he had used the same sticker in two previous games without warnings. In October, Pakistan’s cricket team expressed solidarity with Pàlès-tiniàns during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, which received criticism from Indian fans and cricket experts. The PCB defended the players, stating it was a personal decision and rejecting objections.
