In the wake of allegations of spot-fixing and match-fixing against the Pakistan cricket team, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has demanded proof from those making such claims. The PCB stated that legal action would be pursued against anyone making unsubstantiated accusations. While the statement was not official, Cricket Pakistan quoted a source from the governing body which confirmed awareness of the “negative comments” and labelled the accusations as “baseless.”
“We are fully aware of these negative comments. Criticism within the bounds of the game is acceptable, and there is no objection to it. However, baseless allegations like match-fixing cannot be tolerated under any circumstances,” said the PCB source.
Legal Action and Demand for Evidence
The PCB has made it clear that no internal investigation will be conducted without evidence. They emphasized that the onus of proof lies with those making the allegations. The board has instructed its legal department to issue notices to individuals spreading these claims and demanding evidence. If evidence is not provided, the PCB will seek compensation for defamation under a new law in Punjab that ensures a decision within six months.
“PCB has no doubts, so why should we conduct an inquiry? Those who made the allegations should provide proof. We have instructed our legal department to issue notices to such individuals and demand evidence. If not provided, we will seek compensation for defamation,” the source added.
Following Pakistan’s early exit from the T20 World Cup 2024, former cricketers and administrators have heavily criticized the Babar Azam-led side. Issues such as poor fitness and lack of intent have been highlighted as reasons for their group stage elimination. Pakistan’s campaign began with two losses against T20 World Cup debutants USA and former champions India, and despite winning their last two matches, they could not recover from the initial setbacks.
Allegations of Expensive Gifts
Senior journalist Mubashir Lucman further fueled the controversy by alleging that Babar Azam received an Audi e-Tron GT, valued at approximately INR 2 crore (over double in Pakistani currency), as a gift from his elder brother. Lucman questioned the legitimacy of this gift, suggesting it was linked to match-fixing activities.
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Babar Azam likely to file a DEFAMATION CASE against YouTuber who have put match-fixing and personal allegations during T20 WorldCup campaign.
PCB is also collecting data in regards to fake allegations made on Pakistan Cricket Team.#BabarAzam#T20WorldCuppic.twitter.com/aDtQZ0J41T
— CRICKET JUNOON®️ (@Cricktjunoon) June 21, 2024
“Babar Azam has got a new e-Tron. He has said his brother gifted it. I wondered what his brother does that he is gifting a Rs 7-8 crore car. I found out that he does nothing. Then somebody told me that if you lose to small teams, even then you will not get plots, cars, then who will get? I told the person that these are serious allegations. He told me everyone knows who is doing what,” Lucman said in a viral video.
The video received mixed responses, with some users defending the Pakistan team and accusing others of attempting to defame them. The PCB’s firm stance on requiring proof before taking any action underscores its commitment to protecting the team’s integrity while addressing any baseless claims.
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