Century Turns Costly, Afghanistan Captain Shahidi Penalised Despite Historic Knock vs India

Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi found himself at the centre of controversy despite playing one of the finest innings of his career. The International Cricket Council (International Cricket Council) has penalised Shahidi for breaching the Code of Conduct during the third ODI against India in Chennai on June 20.

The left-handed batter, who scored his maiden ODI century, was handed one demerit point for a Level 1 offence under Article 2.10.10—relating to “deliberate or avoidable damage to the pitch.”

What Exactly Happened on the Field?

The incident occurred at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium, where Shahidi was repeatedly warned for running through the danger area of the pitch—a strict violation in cricket.

On-field umpires Chris Gaffaney and Rohan Pandit cautioned him twice during his innings.

“Despite multiple warnings, the offence continued—turning a brilliant knock into a disciplinary issue.”

The situation escalated in the 40th over when Shahidi once again ran on the pitch. As a result, India were awarded five penalty runs, effectively starting their chase with a bonus.

The charge was formally laid by the umpiring panel, including third umpire Richard Illingworth and fourth umpire Virender Sharma. Match referee Ranjan Madugalle imposed the sanction after Shahidi admitted the offence—eliminating the need for a formal hearing.

A Century Overshadowed by Controversy

Shahidi’s innings was nothing short of remarkable. Walking in during a collapse at 36/4, he anchored Afghanistan’s innings with grit and composure.

• Scored 102 runs off 131 balls
• Hit 13 fours and one six
• Built a 105-run partnership with Azmatullah Omarzai
• Added another 57 runs alongside Mohammad Nabi

“It was a captain’s knock under pressure—but one that ended with mixed emotions.”

Afghanistan were eventually bowled out for 218 in 44.2 overs, with Shahidi being the last wicket to fall.

India’s Dominant Response Led by Jaiswal

India, however, made light work of the target. The chase was headlined by a stunning performance from Yashasvi Jaiswal, who remained unbeaten on 110 off 86 balls.

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He was well supported by skipper Rohit Sharma, who scored a fluent 79 off 69 balls. The duo stitched together a 170-run opening partnership, sealing the match with ease.

“India’s dominance turned the game into a one-sided affair despite Shahidi’s heroics.”

India chased down the target with nine wickets in hand and over 21 overs to spare, completing a 3-0 series whitewash.

Historic Feat for Afghanistan Cricket

Despite the penalty, Shahidi etched his name in Afghanistan’s cricket history.

• 
  Became the first Afghanistan captain to score an ODI century against India
• Only the second Afghanistan skipper overall to hit an ODI hundred

The only other instance came from Asghar Afghan, who scored 101 against Ireland in 2017.

What Lies Ahead for Shahidi?

This marks Shahidi’s first offence under the ICC Code. However, the rules are clear—if a player accumulates four demerit points within 24 months, it could lead to suspension and financial penalties.

“A historic century, a costly mistake—and a lesson that discipline matters as much as performance.”