South African wicketkeeper-batter Heinrich Klaasen has been penalised for violating the ICC Code of Conduct. The announcement was made by the global cricket governing body on Friday. Klaasen was fined 15% of his match fee for breaching Level 1 of the ICC Code during the second ODI against Pakistan in Cape Town on Thursday.
Klaasen violated rules during SA vs PAK
During his innings of 97 runs from 74 balls, Klaasen breached Article 2.2 of the ICC Code, which prohibits “abuse of cricket equipment, clothing, ground equipment, or fixtures” during an international match. After being dismissed as the last batter, Klaasen kicked the stumps in frustration. Pakistan secured an 81-run victory in the match, clinching a 2-0 lead in the three-match series. One demerit point has been added to Klaasen’s disciplinary record. This is his first offence in the past 24 months.
Umpires’ action and admission
The on-field umpires Alex Wharf and Lubabalo Gcuma, third umpire Nitin Menon, and fourth umpire Allahuddien Palekar levelled the charge. Klaasen admitted his offence and accepted the sanction proposed by Match Referee Richie Richardson.
Pakistan seals the series
Pakistan dominated South Africa in the second ODI at Cape Town, winning by 81 runs to seal the series 2-0. Batting first, Pakistan posted a strong total of 329, powered by Babar Azam’s composed 73 and Kamran Ghulam’s fiery 63 off 32 balls. South African pacer Kwena Maphaka shone with four wickets but couldn’t stop the flow of runs.
In reply, South Africa faltered despite Heinrich Klaasen’s valiant 97 off 74 balls. The hosts were bundled out for 248 in just 43.1 overs as Shaheen Afridi (4/47) and Naseem Shah (3/37) delivered outstanding spells. Klaasen’s frustration spilled over when he kicked the stumps after his dismissal, earning him a fine. Pakistan’s disciplined bowling ensured an emphatic win, with Kamran Ghulam deservingly named Player of the Match for his impactful innings. The third and final ODI of the series will take place in Johannesburg on Sunday.
