Just 3 days after the Pakistan Super League (PSL) commenced, two Pakistani cricketers have been slammed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) with a provisional suspension over corruption charges.
Sharjeel Khan and Khalid Latif have been sacked by the PCB as both were found guilty under board’s Anti-Corruption Code as part of an ongoing investigation into an international syndicate as it is believed that they attempted unfair means during the PSL going on in Dubai.
As reported by ANI (which was reported by a Pakistani daily), PCB, in a statement, said,”Sharjeel Khan and Khalid Latif have been suspended and the rigorous and wide-ranging investigation by the PCB supported by the ICC will continue as part of collective efforts to protect the integrity of the sport.”
While the PSL Chairman Najam Sethi is waiting for the investigating committee to come to a perfect conclusion. He said, “It’s not the correct time to comment on the specifics of the case, however, this investigation is a clear demonstration of our determination to drive corruption out of our sport.”
Hitting hard on the entire episode, Sethi further stated that the administration would not sustain any form of corrupt activity and as the investigation proceeds, they would not hesitate to take further decisive action as appropriate.
On the other hand, the International Cricket Council (ICC) have appreciated and backed the step taken by the Pakistani Board against both the players. “The investigation of the Anti-Corruption Unit backed by the ICC ACU has been effective in dealing with this case to date and we will continue to work in the closest collaboration as the investigation proceeds. We are all absolutely committed to relentlessly pursuing anyone who would seek to damage the integrity of our sport,” read the statement issued by PCB.
PCB chairman Shaharyar Khan also said that such activities which harm the spirit of cricket will not be tolerated.
“Under no circumstances will the PCB condone actions of a few individuals to bring disrepute to the game of cricket or taint the image of Pakistan.”
Sharjeel, who made his Test debut against Australia in Sydney last month, has played 25 ODIs and 15 T20s. Latif has represented Pakistan in five ODIs and 13 T20s. Both Sharjeel and Latif play for defending champions Islamabad United.
