NEW DELHI: Several former Pakistan cricketers could face disciplinary action from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) after taking part in the Asian Legends League in Zambia without the required approval, according to ESPNcricinfo. More than a dozen retired Pakistan players signed up for the tournament. The controversy began after the Zambia Cricket Union (ZCU), the country’s official governing body, said the event was not sanctioned, approved or endorsed by it.The PCB said it has taken “serious notice” of the participation of former Pakistan cricketers in the tournament.Players found to have violated the rules could be banned for two years from receiving a PCB No Objection Certificate (NOC) to participate in approved overseas leagues or cricket events.They could also be declared ineligible for any cricketing, coaching, consultancy, mentoring or other roles with the PCB and the Pakistan Super League (PSL) for two years.“In light of the above, the following disciplinary measures will be taken on individuals found to have participated in the said unsanctioned event without obtaining the requisite approvals from the PCB,” the PCB statement said. “A ban of two years from the issuance of any PCB No Objection Certificate (NOC) for participation in approved overseas cricket leagues or events. [And] Ineligibility for any cricketing, coaching, consultancy, mentoring and/or other assignments with the PCB and the PSL for a period of two years.“According to ESPNcricinfo, Mohammad Hafeez, Sohail Tanvir and Umar Akmal travelled to Lusaka after signing up for the league. However, they chose not to play after learning that the required ICC approvals had not been received.Several other former Pakistan cricketers are believed to have participated in the tournament.The PCB said all current and former Pakistan cricketers must obtain the required approvals before taking part in overseas cricket events.“The PCB remains fully committed to upholding the ICC regulations and safeguarding the integrity and governance of the game,” the PCB statement said.“The board reiterates that all current and former cricketers seeking to participate in overseas cricket events requiring PCB clearance must obtain the necessary approvals and NOCs prior to participation,” it said.
