PSL spot-fixing row: PCB bans Mohammad Irfan for one year

Karachi [Pakistan], Mar.29 (ANI): Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has imposed a year-long ban and a fine of one million dollar on left-arm pacer Mohammad Irfan for violating its anti-corruption code during the second edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Irfan's central contract has also been suspended by the PCB. As a result, he would be offered no more contracts during the first six month of the ban. However, the towering pacer would be asked to assist the PCB's Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) whenever required. He could also be asked to attend and participate in lectures organised by the ACU. Irfan's suspension could be reduced to six months if he doesn't further violate any more rules and shows good strength of character. The term of the ban will begin from March 14, when the Shaharyar Khan-led cricket board provisionally suspended the fast bowler for not informing the cricket board after bookies approached him during the second edition of PSL in the UAE last month. While addressing the media, Irfan tendered an apology to the nation for failing to report the approach made by bookies on time before adding that he is ready for all punishment. "I apologise for the negligence. As you all know, I was suspended on March 14 by the PCB on accounts of two allegations against me. I accept my mistake that I didn't inform the PCB or the ACU on time, the Express Tribune quoted Irfan as saying. The pacer also clarified that he never got involved in any sort of illegal activities, adding that he had also given a "shut-up" call to bookies who approached him. "When contacted, I had given the bookies a shut-up call. I never got involved with anyone in any sort of corruption. I had given the PCB the right to give me any punishment that they deem necessary," he said. "I apologise to everyone whom I have hurt due to my negligence. I am hopeful that you all will forgive me for it," he added. Earlier, Irfan was given 14 days to submit his reply before the PCB's Anti-corruption Unit (ACU). However, at the end of deadline, Irfan appeared at the Gaddafi Stadium on Tuesday afternoon to seek permission of one more day for submission of his reply. Besides Irfan, four other players namely Sharjeel Khan, Khalif Latif, Shahzaib Hasan and Nasir Jamshed were also suspended for their alleged involvement in the infamous spot-fixing scandal during the first week of the PSL. Nasir has been facing the charges of playing the role of a facilitator between the players and a bookie named Mohammad Yousuf, who is based out in London. The left-handed batsman will also be quizzed by PCB's ACU in London next week as he is unable to travel to Pakistan after the British authorities seized his passport in the PSL scam case. (ANI)