ICC fines Heinrich Klaasen for 'code breach' against Pakistan

Match referee also issued a demerit point to South African for violating the ICC Code in second ODI against Pakistan

South African wicketkeeper-batter Heinrich Klaasen has been fined 15% of his match fee for a Level 1 breach of the ICC Code of Conduct during the second ODI against Pakistan, played a day ago.

Klaasen was penalised for kicking the stumps upon his dismissal, an action deemed as a violation of Article 2.2 of the ICC Code, which relates to "abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment or fixtures and fittings during an International Match," according to a statement from the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Friday.

In addition to the fine, Klaasen has received one demerit point on his disciplinary record.

The incident occurred after he was dismissed for a valiant 97 off 74 balls, a performance that kept South Africa’s hopes alive in a challenging chase of 330.

Klaasen was the last wicket to fall in the 43rd over, leaving South Africa 81 runs short of the target with little support at the other end. His frustration led to the outburst, prompting sanctions from Match Referee Richie Richardson.

With the victory, Pakistan secured an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series. The final ODI will take place in Johannesburg on Sunday, December 22.