The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is set to take stern disciplinary action against several former cricketers who participated in the Asian Legends League in Zambia without securing the necessary official approvals.

The controversy erupted after the Zambia Cricket Union (ZCU), the official governing body in Zambia, clarified that the tournament was not sanctioned, approved, or endorsed by the organization. In response, the PCB stated it has taken "serious notice" of the participation of more than a dozen retired Pakistani players in the event.

Severe Disciplinary Penalties

Players found to have violated the board's regulations face significant penalties. According to a PCB statement, individuals participating in unsanctioned events without requisite approvals may be subjected to:

• A two-year ban from receiving a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to participate in any approved overseas leagues or cricket events.
• Ineligibility for any cricketing, coaching, consultancy, mentoring, or other roles within the PCB and the Pakistan Super League (PSL) for a period of two years.

"In light of the above, the following disciplinary measures will be taken on individuals found to have participated in the said unsanctioned event without obtaining the requisite approvals from the PCB," the board confirmed.

Player Involvement and ICC Regulations

Reports indicate that high-profile former players including Mohammad Hafeez, Sohail Tanvir, and Umar Akmal traveled to Lusaka after signing up for the league. However, these three players reportedly opted not to play after discovering that the required International Cricket Council (ICC) approvals had not been obtained.

Despite this, several other retired cricketers are believed to have taken part in the tournament, putting them at risk of the board's sanctions.

The PCB emphasized its commitment to global standards, stating, "The PCB remains fully committed to upholding the ICC regulations and safeguarding the integrity and governance of the game." The board further reiterated that all current and former cricketers must obtain necessary approvals and NOCs prior to participating in any overseas events.