The PSL 2 has just started to take off, and the news coming out of there is not okay. One of Pakistan’s talented left-arm fast bowler, Muhammad Irfan is questioned for the involvement in corruption.
Muhammad Irfan is the not the only player spotted for involvement in corruption. Sharjeel Khan and Khalid Latif of Islamabad United (two of his teammates) have also been allegedly involved in some sort of spot-fixing. Unlike Irfan who is allowed to play, Sharjeel Khan and Khalid Latif have already been sent back to Pakistan.
A Clean of Match Fixing Players Underway
Pakistan Super League organizers are not taking any chances here. There are estimated to be around six players involved in this scandal. So far, PCB has identified three players. There are doubts that players from other franchises might also be involved. The management is already investigation players in other franchises like Lahore Qalandars and Quetta Gladiators. There are estimated to be around 3 to 4 more players whose name may come forward after investigation.
Another interesting fact which has come to light is the bookies new way of identifying the spot-fixing batsman. The bookies have reportedly given a specific colored bat grip so that the gamblers can easily spot them during a match. Each player was also offered between PKR 400,000 and 500,000.
Karachi King’s opening batsman Shahzaib Hasan has already been recalled from the field for questioning during the matching with Peshawar Zalmi. He may also be included in the list of players about to be suspended.
Najam Sethi’s Statement on Match Fixing
As soon as the allegations of match fixing came to light, PSL Chairman Najam Sethi issued a statement clearly communicating the boards policy to keep corruption out of cricket. In his statement Mr. Sethi said that the investigation was a clear demonstration of PCB’s determination to get rid of corruption in cricket. He was of the view that PCB and PSL management would not tolerate any kind of corrupt activity. The investigation unit of PCB is also supported by ICC’s anti-corruption unit to deal with such types of corruption cases.
Pakistan cricket has been marred with match-fixing and spot-fixing allegations. It is high time, PCB, PSL and other well-wishers of Pakistan cricket deal with this menace with an iron fist.
