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PCB Takes Strict Action Against Unauthorised Tournament
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has warned current and former cricketers against participating in the Asian Legends League in Zambia, stating that the event is not approved by the International Cricket Council (ICC). The tournament, which began on July 30 in Lusaka, has also not been sanctioned by the Zambia Cricket Union (ZCU).
The PCB has taken “serious notice” of the participation of certain former Pakistan cricketers in the league and announced disciplinary measures for those found to have breached regulations.
Disciplinary Measures Announced
According to the PCB’s official statement, any individual found to have participated in the unsanctioned event without obtaining the requisite approvals will face the following penalties:
- A two-year ban from the issuance of any PCB No Objection Certificate (NOC) for participation in approved overseas cricket leagues or events
- Ineligibility for any cricketing, coaching, consultancy, mentoring, or other assignments with the PCB and the Pakistan Super League (PSL) for a period of two years
Players Named in Pakistan Squad
The Pakistan Panthers squad for the Asian Legends League includes former internationals such as Sharjeel Khan, Kamran Akmal, Mohammad Hafeez, Shoaib Malik, Umar Akmal, Imran Nazir, Saeed Ajmal, Sohail Tanvir, Yasir Shah, Naved-ul-Hasan, Mohammad Irfan, and others.
However, several players, including Mohammad Hafeez, Sohail Tanvir, Umar Akmal, and Shoaib Malik, reportedly withdrew from the tournament after learning that the league lacked the required ICC approvals. The tournament was also abruptly ended by organisers on Tuesday.
ICC Regulations on Unsanctioned Events
The PCB reiterated that the ICC classifies the Asian Legends League as an “unsanctioned/disapproved cricket event” under the ICC Regulations on the Sanctioning of Events and Player Release. All foreign players are required to obtain an NOC from their respective home board before participating in overseas cricket events. Failure to comply with these obligations may result in action against the respective member board.
PCB’s Commitment to Integrity
The PCB reaffirmed its commitment to upholding ICC regulations and safeguarding the integrity of the game. The Board reiterated that all current and former cricketers seeking to participate in overseas cricket events requiring PCB clearance must obtain necessary approvals prior to participation.
