In a significant development, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has modified its stringent sanctions against Fazalhaq Farooqi, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, and Naveen-ul-Haq, signaling a positive step toward their reintegration into the national setup. The players had recently expressed a desire to explore opportunities in T20 franchise cricket, leading to the revocation of their No-Objection Certificates (NOCs) and central contracts by the ACB.
In the aftermath of the players’ plea to be released from central contracts, the Afghanistan Cricket Board had imposed strict sanctions, barring them from obtaining NOCs for two years. However, after a thorough investigation and the players’ renewed commitment to represent Afghanistan, the board has opted for a more flexible approach.
The ACB’s latest decision allows Farooqi, Mujeeb, and Naveen a “limited” number of NOCs to participate in franchise T20 leagues while also reinstating their eligibility for central contracts. However, the players are not without consequences, as they will face wage cuts from their monthly salary and/or match fees. Additionally, the Afghanistan Cricket Board has issued a “final warning” to the trio, emphasizing the importance of discipline and performance in future events.
Afghanistan Cricket Board on central contracts
The Afghanistan Cricket Board press release highlighted the possibility of granting central contracts to the players while maintaining strict monitoring of their conduct on and off the field. The initial sanctions had delayed the issuance of central contracts, and the board aims to ensure that such incidents do not recur.
ACB Chief Mirwais Ashraf expressed the board’s expectations from the players, urging them to represent the country with utmost dedication. While acknowledging the importance of adhering to regulations, Ashraf emphasized that similar cases in the future would be dealt with more rigorously, underscoring the ACB’s commitment to upholding the prestige of Afghanistan Cricket.
The ACB’s revised stance stands out against the trend observed in other national boards, where flexibility is often granted to players to participate in overseas leagues even if they decline central contracts.
Notably, Farooqi and Naveen recently featured in Afghanistan’s T20I series against UAE, showcasing their commitment to national representation.
All three players have been named in the squad set to tour India for three T20Is, signifying a step towards normalcy in their international careers. Mujeeb, who missed the UAE tour due to BBL commitments, is set to make his T20I return since July 2023. As the players move forward, their conduct and performances will be closely monitored, highlighting the delicate balance between player aspirations and national obligations.
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