The recent India vs. Pakistan U-19 match took an unexpected turn when Pakistan’s head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed was seen using his mobile phone in the team dressing room. This raised questions about potential violations of ICC rules during the first inning of the match.
India entered the match knowing a significant loss could impact their chances of reaching the semi-finals. The tension escalated as both teams felt the pressure to secure a win. Sarfaraz’s phone usage has sparked conversations among viewers.
Cameras captured Sarfaraz using his phone.
This incident occurred after the 25th over of the first innings, capturing the attention of viewers. The broadcast revealed Sarfaraz Ahmed using a mobile phone in Pakistan’s dressing room.
The ICC has clear rules banning communication devices in the Player and Match Officials Area (PMOA) to prevent teams from gaining an unfair advantage through outside information during the match.
Since Sarfaraz used the phone in the dressing room, which is within the PMOA, this matter can be investigated by the match referee and the ICC.
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ICC Rules on Device Usage Inside PMOA
The ICC prohibits all mobile devices, including phones, from the PMOA area from the match start until its conclusion. The rules specify that no one can bring in mobile devices or laptops during this time, including for internet access.
Access to the PMOA is restricted from the moment players enter until the match broadcast ends, ensuring fair play and preventing outside influence.
Violations of these rules can lead to varying penalties from warnings to fines, depending on the severity of the breach.
Clause That Could Protect Sarfaraz Ahmed
While the ICC enforces strict rules, there is one exception. A team manager is allowed to bring one mobile phone into the PMOA for official duties as outlined in the regulations.
This phone can also be used for urgent personal matters, but only with the manager’s consent. A team media manager can carry a phone, but it must remain on silent and cannot be used in the PMOA.
If Sarfaraz was using the phone for official team business, he might not face punishment due to this exception. The match referee will need to review the circumstances before deciding if any disciplinary action is warranted against the Pakistan team.
Match Situation Stays Intense
Both teams are under pressure on the field. India set a score of 252, presenting a manageable target for Pakistan. With both teams vying for semi-final spots, the stakes are high.
The situation has heightened the tension between the two teams as they approach their ICC match.
