Aamer Jamal fined PKR 1.3 million for wearing '804' cap
What's the story
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has fined all-rounder Aamer Jamal PKR 1.3 million for violating its code of conduct.
The incident occurred during an on-field interview in the first Test of Pakistan's home series against England in October 2024 when Jamal donned a cap inscribed with the number "804."
The number represents former Pakistan captain and ex-Prime Minister Imran Khan's prison badge, who is currently serving a jail term.
Additional fines
PCB penalizes other players for curfew violations
Along with Jamal, the PCB has also penalized four other cricketers - Salman Agha, Saim Ayub, Abdullah Shafique, and Abbas Afridi.
Each player has been fined PKR 5,00,000 for violating rules during Pakistan's tour of South Africa.
The players allegedly breached curfew by reaching late at the team hotel.
These disciplinary measures are part of broader scrutiny following Pakistan's dismal performance in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Policy changes
PCB implements stricter policies
The PCB has tightened its screws, including a drastic cut in match fees for players in the National T20 Cup.
Reportedly, players in the National T20 Cup will now get just PKR 10,000 per match, a whopping 75% cut from last season.
The decision was widely criticized in cricket circles, questioning the board's financial stability with these cuts.
Current challenges
Pakistan's ongoing struggles in New Zealand
Currently, Pakistan's squad is in New Zealand for an eight-match white-ball series (five T20Is and three ODIs).
However, the team's struggles have continued, with the T20I side suffering a nine-wicket defeat in Christchurch.
In their first T20I match against the hosts, Pakistan were bowled out for just 91 runs, with New Zealand pacers Jacob Duffy and Kyle Jamieson sharing seven wickets.
The hosts chased down the target in only 10.1 overs.