PCB demands evidence against match-fixing allegations; calls for journalists, YouTubers to provide proof

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) demanded evidence of match-fixing allegations against the players after the team exited the ongoing 2024 T20 World Cup after the first round. Losing to the co-hosts and tournament’s debutant, the USA, broke their confidence before arch-rivals India clinched a tight win to dent their chances of entering Super 8s. Although they won their match against Ireland, Pakistan failed to cruise ahead owing to the washout game against Canada, resulting in them falling behind the USA on the points table.

However, considering the rise of criticism culture in the country over the past few years, the fans, a few journalists, several former cricketers and countless YouTubers began hammering the team for their dismal show at the showpiece event. Although the board expected such a reaction from the fans, knowing how invested they are in their cricket, allegations of players getting involved in fixing-related activities escalated the whole matter.

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Following a video that has gone viral on social media of a journalist revealing several top players, including the captain Babar Azam and star players like Shaheen Shah Afridi, underperformed on purpose, the PCB demanded evidence against such baseless allegations.

Per a report in Cricket Pakistan, the ICC’s anti-corruption officials and the security manager, who accompanied the team, kept a close watch on everyone. Besides, per the sources close to the information, none of the star players, including Babar, Afridi, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shadab Khan, ever got involved in ill activities.

‘Defamation case to follow’

Upon approaching the board, the officials said,

"We are fully aware of these negative comments. Criticism within the bounds of the game is acceptable, and there is no objection to it. However, baseless allegations like match-fixing cannot be tolerated under any circumstances.”

Moreover, when asked further on what steps the stakeholders take to curb such remarks, the official stated,

"PCB has no doubts, so why should we conduct an inquiry? Those who made the allegations should provide proof. We have instructed our legal department to issue notices to such individuals and demand evidence. If not provided, we will seek compensation for defamation. A new law in Punjab ensures that a decision will come within six months."

Following an incident involving a verbal spat between Pakistan seamer Haris Rauf and a Pakistani fan after their exit from the tournament, the players seem worried about their security while roaming around with their families.

As per the report, Babar, alongside a few other players, didn’t come home directly from the T20 World Cup because of security reasons, while the board has assured players of complete protection, further asking them to report an issue if it occurs.

(With inputs from agencies)