Pakistan all-rounder Khushdil Shah has been fined 50% of his match fees for violating Level 2 of the ICC Code of Conduct during the first T20I against New Zealand in Christchurch on Sunday. The International Cricket Council (ICC) released a statement saying that Khushdil was found guilty of breaching Article 2.12, which addresses "inappropriate physical contact with a Player, Player Support Personnel, Umpire, Match Referee, or anyone else."

In addition to the fine, he has also received three demerit points on his disciplinary record, marking his first offense in two years.

The incident took place in the eighth over of Pakistan's innings when Khushdil made inappropriate contact with bowler Zakary Foulkes while running between the wickets. The ICC described the incident as "reckless, negligent, and avoidable."

Khushdil acknowledged the offense and accepted the penalty suggested by Jeff Crowe from the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees, so there was no need for a formal hearing. The charge was brought forth by on-field umpires Wayne Knights and Sam Nogajski, along with third umpire Kim Cotton and fourth umpire Chris Brown.

For those who might not know, a Level 2 breach can result in a fine ranging from 50% to 100% of a player's match fee or up to two suspension points.

New Zealand dominates Pakistan in the opening T20I match

New Zealand, the home team, dominated Pakistan, winning by nine wickets with 59 balls to spare, taking a 1-0 lead in the five-match series. Pakistan struggled, getting all out for just 91 runs and failing to complete their 20 overs. Jacob Duffy was impressive for the Kiwis, claiming four wickets, while Kyle Jamieson added three to his tally. At one point, Pakistan found themselves in a tough spot at 1/3 in the third over.

New Zealand easily chased down the target in just 10.1 overs, with Tim Seifert leading the charge, scoring 44 runs off 29 balls, including 7 fours and a six. Finn Allen and Tim Robinson finished the innings not out, with scores of 29 and 18, respectively.

The two teams will meet again on Tuesday for the second T20I in Dunedin.

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