Pakistan failed to go past the Super 8 stage in the tournament.
Pakistan cricket and controversy go hand in hand. In a shocking development, Pakistani cricketers have been penalized for their dismal show in the ongoing ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
According to a report by ESPNCricinfo, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has fined each players PKR 5 million (US$ 18,000 approx).
The report mentioned that the decision by the board was made right after the 61-run thrashing at the hands of India in the group stage.
Salman Ali Agha and his men were reportedly told the fines may end up being waived off if Pakistan reached the semi-finals, but they failed to go beyond the Super 8 phase of the tournament.
The Men in Green began their T20 World Cup campaign on a nervy note, almost enduring a loss against the Netherlands. The team then defeated the USA but were crushed by arch-rivals India.
Pakistan went on to defeat Namibia in their last Group A clash and qualify for the Super 8s. Their opening fixture against New Zealand in the Super 8s was washed out, forcing both teams to share points. Following this, they endured another loss against England, which left their fate hanging as far as the contention for semifinals were concerned.
Although England’s win over New Zealand gave Pakistan hope, they failed to make it count against co-hosts Sri Lanka. The 2009 champions won the match but couldn’t overtake the Kiwis on Net Run Rate to qualify for the semis.
As per the report, there were no disciplinary issues within the team throughout the biennial event, and the fines have been imposed specifically for the quality of their on-field performances.
The PCB has come down hard on players in the past as well. After losing to India in the Asia Cup final last year, the PCB had briefly suspended all No-Objection Certificates (NOCs) issued to players that would have allowed them to feature in overseas T20 leagues. That suspension, however, was lifted soon after and some of the top Pakistani players went on to play the BBL.
(With ESPNCricinfo Inputs)