‘Naya Shuru Business?’ Naseem Shah is seen mid-game taking fans’ phones and putting them in his pocket.

While seemingly harmless, this stunt could land Naseem Shah in big trouble! According to ICC regulations, the use of mobile phones and other communication devices is prohibited in the locker room and on the playing field. In 2018, the ICC’s anti-corruption officer issued a warning to some Pakistani players who were seen using the devices during a Test match against England at Lord’s.
To avoid accusations of match-fixing, the global governing body has ordered players to refrain from wearing smartwatches while competing. The ICC had even issued a press release addressing the prohibition of communication devices on the field during a game. The all-rounder Shadab Khan and Shah were rested for Pakistan’s Super 4 match against Sri Lanka on Friday, which the team eventually lost by five wickets.
Naseem was given a chance to play due to Shaheen Afridi’s injury, and he had a significant impact on the team’s Asia Cup run, as evidenced by the double sixes he hit against Afghanistan earlier this week. Sri Lanka has appeared in more Asia Cup finals than any other country. On Sunday, they will play their 11th such match, two more than the seven-time champions India.
However, they have only won five games so far. Pakistan, on the other hand, has won two of its four finals. The two countries had previously met in the Asia Cup final three times, with Sri Lanka holding a 2-1 advantage despite each match taking place in the ODI format.
Is Naseem’s action justified?