ICC U19 World Cup: Sarfaraz Ahmed spotted using phone, questions raised over PMOA regulations

A moment involving Pakistan U19 head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed during the ICC Under-19 World Cup Super Six encounter against India U19 triggered debate after cameras captured him using a mobile phone during the match. The incident occurred amid intense scrutiny, with both teams battling for a place in the semifinals.

Also Read । ICC T20 World Cup: India open World Cup with two points as Pakistan decides to boycott the marquee clash

Broadcast visuals draw attention mid-innings

The visuals surfaced during India’s batting innings, shortly after the 25th over, when Sarfaraz was spotted checking his phone while seated in the players’ enclosure. Given the restricted nature of the Players’ and Match Officials’ Area (PMOA), the footage quickly went viral, prompting questions around compliance with ICC’s anti-corruption and communication protocols.

What ICC rules say about mobile phones

As per ICC regulations cited in the article, mobile phones are strictly banned inside the Players’ and Match Officials’ Area (PMOA) during active match time. Clause 4.1.1 of the ICC code states that no person shall carry or use a mobile device for any reason whatsoever in the PMOA, a rule aimed at preventing external communication that could influence the game’s integrity.

Also Read । 'Hope to have him soon': Suryakumar Yadav on Tilak Varma and Washington Sundar’s availability

The rules, however, allow limited exceptions. One mobile phone may be permitted for a team manager for official operations or emergencies, subject to prior approval. Media managers may also carry a device but are not allowed to use it while inside the PMOA. Whether the phone seen with Pakistan U19 coach Sarfaraz Ahmed fell under these exemptions remains unclear and is left to the match referee’s assessment.

Match officials may review the incident

While no on-field action was taken, the incident is expected to be reviewed by the match referee and ICC officials. In high-profile tournaments like the Under-19 World Cup, even minor procedural lapses are examined closely, especially in India-Pakistan fixtures that draw massive attention.