PCB bans Pakistani players from WCL over ‘political interference’

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Board of Governors (BOG), chaired by Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, convened a meeting to address what it described as “double standards” by the organisers of the World Championship of Legends (WCL).

The board expressed disappointment over WCL’s decision to award points to a team that did not play scheduled matches. The PCB said that such decisions violate the basic principles of the sport and compromise the integrity of competition.

Citing the unilateral nature of the WCL’s decision and the issuance of what it called a ‘contradictory press release’ regarding the cancellation of Pakistan Legends matches, the PCB accused the tournament organisers of displaying biased conduct and acting under political and commercial influence.

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The PCB reiterated its longstanding stance of keeping politics separate from cricket and said that any effort to prioritise political narratives over the spirit of the game threatens the credibility of international tournaments.

As a result, the PCB board has decided that Pakistani players will not participate in the upcoming edition of the World Championship of Legends. The board declared it would not allow involvement in any competition which is influenced by narrow political interests.

PCB’s statement concluded with a warning that such decisions by tournament organisers could negatively impact the future of international cricket if not addressed.