PSL spot-fixing row: PCB bans Mohammad Nawaz for two months

Karachi [Pakistan], May 17 (ANI): Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has imposed a two-month ban and a fine of Rs. two lakhs on all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz in its ongoing probe into the Pakistan Super League (PSL) spot-fixing scandal. The 23-year-old was issued a `Notice of Charge` by the PCB Vigilance and Security Department on May 12 wherein he was charged with a single violation of Article 2.4.4 of the Code. It was alleged that Nawaz had, on one occasion, failed to disclose to the PCB Vigilance and Security Department (without unnecessary delay) full details of the approaches and invitations received by him to engage in Corrupt Conduct. Nawaz accepted the charges levelled against him by the PCB that he had failed to timely disclose details of bookies' approach to the board's Vigilance and Security Department. On May 15, Nawaz approached the PCB to initiate proceedings under Article 5.1.12 of the PCB Code and requested for "Agreed Sanction" a meeting to hold discussions. Resultantly, the PCB had asked Nawaz to submit a written statement explaining his version of events; his response to the Notice of Charge; and any mitigating factors that he would like the PCB to consider, and thereafter appear before the PCB Vigilance and Security Department to answer their queries. Nawaz submitted his written statement admitting the charges leveled against him by PCB and appeared for subsequent meetings with PCB on May 16 to properly explain his case. However, the suspension period could be reduced to one month if certain conditions are fulfilled by the all-rounder. Earlier, Nawaz had confessed before the PCB's Anti-Corruption Unit that he was approached by bookmakers during Pakistan's tour of Australia, something which he failed to report to the PCB on time. While Nawaz did reveal it later on, it was well after the allowed time period to report such matters. Nawaz , who has made just three Test and 9 ODI appearances for Pakistan, played for runner-ups Quetta Gladiators in the second edition of the PSL. (ANI)