Hard times ahead for ICL-bound Pakistan players

Lahore, Sep 6 (UNI) More hard times are in store for the ICL-bound Pakistani cricketers after the National Assembly Standing Committee informed of a possible action against those who have switched or intend to switch loyalties.

''We would take up the matter regarding some players joining the ICL. If the country needs their service, they should prefer playing for the country,'' chairman of the committee, Rai Azizullah Khan, told 'The News'.

''We want to listen to the PCB side of the story as to what happened. If these players fell to the lust of money they should be reprimanded for that,'' he added.

Former captain Inzamam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Yousuf, Abdul Razzaq and Imran Farhat have already all joined the multi-million dollar league.

Incidentally, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has asked an explanation from Farhat about his signing with the rebel Twenty20 league as he was still a contracted player with the board.

It also talks of Farhat to substantiate allegations of bias and unjust treatment made against board officials.

Expressing satisfaction over the news that the new PCB constitution is in final stage of implementation Rai said, ''We are finally reading some good news about the constitution.

''The PCB officials, who are to appear in the meeting would be inquired about the latest development.'' PCB chairman Nasim Ashraf is expected to lead the board's delegation in the National Assembly meeting.

UNI