Why did Khushdil Shah confront fans during third ODI against New Zealand?
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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued a statement addressing the incident involving all-rounder Khushdil Shah and his altercation with fans during the third One Day International (ODI) against New Zealand.
Pakistan was set a target of 265 runs in a 42-over contest. Babar Azam (50 off 58 balls), was the top batter for Pakistan as the Greenshirts were bowled out for 221 in 40 overs. New Zealand's Ben Sears took 5 wickets for 34 runs in 9 overs, playing a key role in the defeat.
Following the loss, Khushdil Shah reacted to taunts from spectators in the crowd.
According to the PCB's response, foreign fans at the stadium used abusive language towards the players, which led to Khushdil Shah becoming upset.
In an attempt to address the situation, Shah confronted Afghan fans who had been vocal in their criticism. However, when he asked them to stop, the fans responded by using more offensive language in Pashto.
The situation escalated when the Afghan fans attempted to physically engage with the player. Following a complaint from the Pakistani team, two foreign spectators were removed from the stadium.
When Khushdil Shah advanced towards the fans in retaliation, security personnel and players intervened, preventing any further escalation and diffusing the situation.
Previously, Khushdil Shah accepted his fine of 50% match fee for a Level 2 breach of the ICC Code of Conduct during the first T20I against New Zealand in Christchurch on March 16.
The left-hander was also handed three demerit points, marking his first offence in a 24-month period.
Khushdil was found guilty during the first T20I between Pakistan and New Zealand of violating Article 2.12 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which pertains to 'inappropriate physical contact with a Player, Player Support Personnel, Umpire, Match Referee or any other person (including a spectator during an International Match).'
The incident occurred during the eighth over of Pakistan's innings when Khushdil forcefully barged into New Zealand pacer Zakary Foulkes.
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