Azam Khan fined for displaying Palestinian flag on his bat

KARACHI: Batter Azam Khan was fined 50% of his match fees for displaying the flag of Palestine on his bat during the National T20 game.

He was found in violation for breaching clothing and equipment regulations (displaying unapproved logo/political messaging) during the match in Karachi.

The batter is playing for Karachi Whites and scored 35 against Lahore Blues on Sunday before being summoned by the match referee Mohammad Javed and fined percent of his match fees.

The batter was earlier warned by the referee not to display the unapproved logo (Palestine’s flag) on his bat as it would be a breach of the ICC code of conduct. Azam reportedly informed the referee that all of his bats have the same stickers.

The ICC regulation for clothing and equipment states that players shall not be allowed to display messages that carry political, religious, or racial activities or causes.

During the Cricket World Cup in October this year, the Pakistan cricket team showed support for Palestinians suffering from an onslaught by Israel.

However, Indian fans and cricket experts raised objections on the players’ constant support for Palestine and questioned whether such moves were allowed in the tournament. The PCB rejected the objections over and said the team’s expression of solidarity was a personal decision.