ACB modifies sanctions on Naveen, Mujeeb and Farooqi, Afghanistan players to get limited NOCs

The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has made modifications to sanctions imposed on Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazal Haq Farooqi, and Naveen Ul Haq. The ACB said that the modifications were made “following a thorough investigation” and “will now allow these players to receive central contracts and participate in franchise leagues while ensuring their full commitment to national duties and ACB’s interests”. The ACB’s latest step signals the end of the dispute between the cricket board and players Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazal Haq Farooqi, and Naveen Ul Haq. The three cricketers had informed ACB in December that they wanted to be released from central contracts which would have allowed them to play freely in T20 leagues, but the Board reacted by revoking their existing No-Objection Certificates and also decided not to grant them NOCs for two years. Now the players will be given “limited” NOCs to play in T20 leagues and they can also receive central contracts. Upon the players’ unconditional approach to the ACB and expressing a strong desire to represent the country again, the ACB initiated a comprehensive investigation. After evaluating the players’ initial stance in light of recent developments and acknowledging the importance of their presence in the national team, the assigned committee communicated its final recommendations to the board. The modified recommendations were declared as a final warning, while a financial penalty has also been levied on them. Following are the modified recommendations. Final warning and salary deduction: Each player shall receive a final written warning and face a specific salary deduction from their monthly earnings and/or match fees. Limited NOCs: ACB will strictly consider the issuance of the NOCs to the respected players while prioritizing the national duty and ACB’s interests. Central contract: ACB may grant central contracts to these players while strictly monitoring their performance and discipline in events. Mirwais Ashraf, the ACB Chairman, while pointing out the contributions of the players to the Afghanistan team, also added that the modifications were made considering their importance to the side. He hoped the players would remain committed to the team’s interest. “The players have undoubtedly contributed to the team’s success and have represented the nation to the best of their values. We hope that they avoid making similar inconveniences in the future as we expect them to represent the country in the best of manners.” “The ACB and the rules are above all of us and it’s important to adhere to the regulations because there are no exceptions for anyone in this regard. However, such cases of a similar nature would be dealt with more strictly as we prioritize the prestige of the Afghanistan Cricket and the organization.” He added. The decision taken by ACB goes against the cricketing norm in which the other boards have provided the freedom to players to participate in T20 leagues even if they have turned down central contracts.