Former players criticise inconsistent PCB

Disappointed with the inconsistent functioning of the PCB, former cricketers said that the board had made a mockery of itself by first banning a few players and then unconditionally lifting the restrictions on a select few.

Reacting to PCB's appeal judge Irfan Qadir's decision to lift Younis Khan's indefinite ban today, former captain Zaheer Abbas said the way PCB handled the issue showed its inconsistency.

"They have a badshaahi system in the board. They do what they want and have no remorse at all," Abbas said.

He questioned the logic behind PCB's decision to ban a few players, including former skipper Shoaib Malik and Younis, for misconduct during the disastrous Australia tour, saying, "If the purpose was to remove the bans after just two months then why impose the bans on the players at all."

"The board first tried to discredit the players and now by removing the bans abruptly, they are discrediting themselves," Abbas said.

Abbas said Younis had taken the correct stand by asking for his hearing to be conducted in front of the media.

The PCB appeal's judge Irfan Qadir last week removed a one-year ban on Malik and also waived off the Rs three million fine on Shahid Afridi. He also reduced the fine of Akmal brothers' -- Kamran and Umar.

If that was not enough, the judge removed an indefinite ban on Younis after the former captain had challenged the board's decision.

Former leg-spinner and chief selector Abdul Qadir was disgusted with PCB's frequent change of mind and said under such circumstances, former skipper Mohammad Yousuf was right in quitting international cricket.

"After watching all this I think Mohammad Yousuf's decision to retire was correct and he should now stick to his decision," he said.

He also said that the PCB must treat all players equally and Rana Naved's ban should also be removed soon.

"I just feel that there should be equal treatment and justice for all players. Why has the board not removed the ban and fine on Rana Naved. What serious crime has he committed to remain banned?" Qadir questioned.

PCB lawyer Talib Rizvi told the media in Lahore that the bans had been removed and fines were reduced keeping in mind the larger interest of Pakistan cricket.

He said the decisions were taken only after the players gave assurances that they would not breach discipline in future.

"The players have assured the board they will adhere to the code of conduct in future," Rizvi added.