Pakistan all-rounder Aamir Jamal has been fined over a million rupees (approximately USD 4000) by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for violating the board's code of conduct during the team's home Test series against England and subsequent tour to Australia in late 2024.

Jamal, who was among eight players penalised, faced disciplinary action for displaying a slogan in support of former Prime Minister and cricket legend Imran Khan. 

During a training session ahead of Pakistan's Test match against England in December 2024, Jamal was spotted with "804" written on the underside of his floppy hat—Imran's prisoner number since his incarceration in August 2023. 

The number has become a rallying cry among Imran's supporters, frequently appearing at Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) rallies and even during Pakistan Super League (PSL) matches.

Although the incident did not take place on a match day and thus did not constitute a violation of ICC regulations, the PCB's code of conduct closely mirrors that of the ICC. 

The board fined Jamal under clause 2.23, which prohibits "public criticism of, or inappropriate comment in relation to the Board, any of its officials or sponsors or policies, the ICC or any of its officers or sponsors, Player, Player Support Personnel or Match Officials including umpires and match referees." The clause specifically restricts players from making statements on political matters.

The fine imposed on Jamal is considered unusually steep, suggesting that the PCB may be aiming to set a precedent rather than solely addressing an individual disciplinary breach.

Imran was the prime minister until he was removed by a parliamentary vote of no confidence in May 2022. He and his party have been at odds with the current government of Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif. Mohsin Naqvi, the current chair of the PCB, is a key figure in the current government as the interior minister and by constitution, is an appointee to the PCB of the prime minister.

This is not the first time PCB's stance on Imran Khan has drawn attention. Under former PCB Chairman Zaka Ashraf, a promotional video celebrating Pakistan cricket history controversially omitted Imran, leading to widespread criticism and a subsequent revision to include him. Speculation also arose about the potential renaming of the Imran Khan Enclosure at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium, though the name remained unchanged following stadium renovations.

Jamal is just one of several players who faced disciplinary actions over the winter, with others fined for curfew violations and breaches of team protocols. The PCB's recent crackdown highlights its intent to enforce strict discipline among its players, sending a strong message ahead of upcoming international fixtures.