Pakistan to ban former players for playing in unsanctioned league

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) could ban a number of former Pakistani players for taking part in an unsanctioned league. More than a dozen players signed up for the Asian Legends League in Zambia. Last week, the Zambia Cricket Union, which is the official governing body, put out a statement in clarification.

They revealed that the league wasn’t sanctioned, approved, or endorsed by the ZCU. The PCB has taken notice of the statement, and they have become serious about the participation of the former Pakistan players in the league.

PCB may ban former Pakistan players over unsanctioned Asian Legends League appearance

The PCB stated that the competition was an unsanctioned event, and the participation of its players pushed the PCB to take action against them. They put out a statement on the situation.

“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 board expressed this in a statement.

“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.” It addressed.

It has been revealed that the former Pakistan players, including Sharjeel Khan, Shoaib Malik, Umar and Kamran Akmal, Yasir Shah, Saeed Ajmal, Hasan Raza, Zulfiqar Babar, Rana Naeem Anwar, and others.

“The PCB remains fully committed to upholding the ICC regulations and safeguarding the integrity and governance of the game. 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 before participation.” The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) statement added.

Which Indian players featured in the Asian Legends League 2026?

The other teams to participate in the tournament are Indian Royals, Sri Lanka Lions, Bangladesh Tigers, Afghanistan Pathans, and Asian Stars. But only the PCB has stated that the participation of players is a violation.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) hasn’t issued any statement regarding the participation of the Indian players. A number of players from the Indian Premier League (IPL) participated in the event.

The former players, Naman Ojha and Rishi Dhawan, have played in the matches. Former IPL players such as Shadab Jakati, Manpreet Gony, and Anureet Singh played in the first couple of matches. The league continued its matches till August 03.