By Zainab Shafiq 
Pakistan fast bowler Aamir Jamal has been fined a hefty amount of PKR 1.4 million by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for wearing 804 on his cap Test cap, violating board rules. The action follows a symbolic message that he wrote on his cap during the first test of a three-match home series against England in October 2024. Since then, it has been a huge source of controversy in Pakistan’s cricketing fraternity.
Jamal reportedly had scribbled the figure ‘804’ on his Test cap, which is said to be associated with former Pakistan skipper and erstwhile Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is now in prison. The gesture was seen as a political act, and thus the PCB was forced to act tough.
The administration keeps a hard line on political affiliations being shown on the field. The display of ‘804’ was read as an expression of support for Khan, which was judged by the PCB to be a breach of its policy of neutrality.
Sources within suggest this move may also have resulted in Jamal’s snub from the Pakistani team that will represent them in the coming Champions Trophy. Administrators from within the PCB believe giving politics a head into the sport would establish a precedent for anything entering cricket.
Aamir Jamal was fined for 804, but Saim, Salman, and Abdullah had other reasons…
Jamal was not alone as a player under penalty. Various teammates were also penalized for disciplinary offences, although their offences were not in the form of political expressions. Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, and Abdullah Shafique each received a fine of PKR 500,000 for breaching team curfews while on Pakistan’s Australia tour.
Also, Sufiyan Muqeem, Abbas Afridi, and Usman Khan were each fined $200 for being late back to the team hotel during Pakistan’s tour of South Africa this year.
PCB’s Attitude Towards Discipline and Neutrality
The PCB has reaffirmed its pledge to maintain discipline and ensure cricket does not get embroiled in political undertones. “Players are expected to follow the board’s code of conduct, and any violation—intentional or otherwise—will be acted upon sternly,” an official said.
Jamal’s incident has evoked divided opinions, with some supporting the PCB’s tough stance, while others opine that personal beliefs should not invite such extreme consequences. Nonetheless, the episode highlights the thin line sportsmen have to tread between personal convictions and professional duties in the sporting arena.
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