Repercussions of World Cup Failure, Pakistan Squad Fined PKR 5 Million

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has fined the entire squad PKR 5 million following a disappointing performance in the T20 World Cup.

Pakistan were eliminated from the tournament at the Super Eight stage, failing to reach the semi-finals for the fourth consecutive ICC event—a first in the country’s history.

According to ESPNcricinfo, the fines were not related to disciplinary issues. The board imposed them solely due to what it considered unsatisfactory on-field performance. Players were informed about the fines immediately after a 61-run defeat to India in the group stage. It was also stated at the time that the fines could be waived if the team reached the semi-finals.

Although Pakistan progressed past the first round to the second stage, they struggled in the Super Eight group. A washed-out match against New Zealand was followed by a defeat to England. New Zealand’s big win over Sri Lanka complicated Pakistan’s chances, and although they defeated Sri Lanka, the margin was insufficient to advance to the last four.

While the PCB has previously taken strict measures against players, those actions were generally disciplinary. This decision, based entirely on performance, is rare—and potentially unprecedented—in Pakistan cricket. There were no disciplinary issues within the team during the tournament, according to sources.

In the past, the PCB has also acted firmly after major tournament disappointments. Following a narrow defeat to India in the Asia Cup final, the board temporarily suspended all No-Objection Certificates (NOCs) for players, preventing them from participating in winter T20 leagues. However, the suspension was later lifted.

Although the fines applied to all players, a few enjoyed individual success. Sahibzada Farhan set a record for the most runs in a T20 World Cup and became the only player to score two centuries in the same tournament.