PCB terms conviction of Pakistan players a sad day for cricket

Pakistan Cricket Board has termed the conviction and sentencing of three Pakistani players,Salman Butt,Mohammad Asif and Mohammad Aamir “a sad day for Pakistan cricket.A PCB spokesman with reference to the punishment handed over to the players in Southward Crown Court London said here on Friday “ It is a sad day for Pakistan cricket.Instead of having pride in playing for their country, these players chose to disappoint their supporters, damage the image of their country and bring the noble game of cricket into disrepute. There is little sympathy in Pakistan for the sorry pass they have come to”.


Salman has been sentenced to two years and six months in jail for his role in the spot fixing case, Asif has got a one year jail sentence and Aamir six month.Mazhar Majeed the players agent has been sentenced to two years and eight month.
He said PCB is determined to ensure that any form of corrupt behaviour from Pakistan cricket is stamped out.
“ We will be adopting a number of measures to stop the happening of such incidents in future “,he said.
The steps or measures included training courses under PCB education program would be upgraded for all players and particularly younger entrants into international cricket to inform them of the law and spirit of the game, the inducements that may be offered to them by unscrupulous elements, and the pitfalls associated with deviant behaviour.
“ Strict vigilance protocols to be introduced to monitor the game, devise appropriate rules and procedures of conduct, and keep away bad elements always on the lookout to trap players”,he said.
The code of conduct and the parameters of registering and approving anyone desirous of being an agent of the players will be reviewed and strengthened further. No unauthorized hiring of agents would be permitted.
A recommendation would be made to the government to consider passing a law in the parliament making corruption in sports a criminal offence. This would not only be deterrence, but also allow proper prosecution and punishment for criminal behaviour.
“ These are just some of the measures being contemplated by the PCB. More would follow as and when the need arises. Ridding Pakistan cricket of any possible corrupt behaviour will remain a high priority for the PCB”,he said adding “ PCB will also work closely with the ICC and its member Boards in ensuring that the game of cricket globally is made totally free from the taint of corruption.”