Wahab, Shakib fined for on pitch heated argument

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DHAKA: Pakistani all-rounder Wahab Riyaz and Bangladesh player Shakib Al Hasan lost their 30% of the match fees as fined for a heated on pitch argument during the final day of the drawn first Test between the sides.

Hasan and Riaz were fined for breaching the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) code of conduct during the Test in Khulna, the ICC said in a press release on its website.

The ICC didn’t say how much that percentage represented but it is thought to be around $1,000 each.

“Posturing and finger pointing in each others face is not what we expect from two senior international players and has no place in cricket,”  the ICC quoted match-referee Jeff Crowe as saying.

“International cricketers should always remember that they are being watched and followed by millions and, therefore, need to always control their emotions and demonstrate respect,” he added.

The incident happened in the 118th over of Bangladesh’s second innings on Saturday when the two players “unnecessarily halted play by arguing and pointing fingers at each other,” the release said.

It added that both players had admitted their guilt and that no formal hearing was needed.

The second and final Test of the series will be held at Dhaka’s Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium from May 6-10.