According to the ICC, Zaman breached Article 2.8 of the Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which

deals specifically with “showing dissent at an umpire’s decision during an international match.” The charge stemmed from

events in the 19th over, when the left-hander engaged in a prolonged argument with the on-field umpires, challenging the

verdict that cost him his wicket. His visible frustration and continued dispute were deemed to have crossed the line set

by the sport’s disciplinary standards.

Along with the financial penalty, Zaman has received one demerit point, the first on his record within the past 24

months. Demerit points remain active for two years, and players who accumulate four or more within that period face

suspension points, which can lead to bans from upcoming matches across formats. Although Zaman’s current tally poses no

immediate danger of suspension, the addition serves as a formal warning under ICC disciplinary procedures.

Match referee Reon King of the Emirates ICC International Panel of Match Referees imposed the sanction. Zaman accepted

both the charge and the punishment, making a formal hearing unnecessary. The charge itself was initiated by the

officiating team for the final: on-field umpires Ahsan Raza and Asif Yaqoob, supported by third umpire Rashid Riaz and

fourth umpire Faisal Afridi.

Level 1 offences are the mildest category under the ICC Code of Conduct but still carry significant consequences. They

allow for penalties ranging from an official reprimand to fines amounting to 50 per cent of a player’s match fee, along

with the potential addition of one or two demerit points depending on the severity of the infraction.