The participation of Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Naveen Ul Haq, and Fazalhaq Farooqi in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season is in jeopardy as the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) is unlikely to grant them No Objection Certificates (NOCs). In a recent development, the ACB has postponed the annual contracts for the year 2024 for these players, citing a need for a thorough investigation by a dedicated committee.
The trio had expressed a desire to be released from their central contracts from January 1, prompting the ACB to scrutinize the matter closely. The board emphasized that the players’ reluctance to sign central contracts due to their involvement in commercial leagues raised concerns about prioritizing personal interests over national responsibilities.
“In response, the Afghanistan Cricket Board has decided to take disciplinary measures against these players,” stated the ACB on its website.
The ACB has assigned a committee to investigate the players’ actions and develop recommendations that align with the board’s interests. Mujeeb, Naveen, and Farooqi have also requested the reconsideration of their consent for participating in national events.
The special committee has proposed a three-point recommendation, effective from January 1, 2024:
- The three players will be ineligible for central contracts for one year, during which the ACB will decide their participation in events as needed.
Additionally, the ACB clarified that the NOCs for these players would be immediately revoked. This development adds uncertainty to the IPL 2024, where Mujeeb, Naveen, and Farooqi are associated with Kolkata Knight Riders, Lucknow Super Giants, and Sunrisers Hyderabad, respectively.
It remains to be seen how these disciplinary measures will impact the trio’s cricketing future and their involvement in crucial cricketing events, including the three-match T20I series against India scheduled for January 11, 14, and 17, 2024. The ACB’s decision underscores the delicate balance between commercial leagues and national commitments in the world of professional cricket.
For mmore updates stay tuned to FELA News
