A controversy emerged during the ongoing ICC Men’s T20 World Cup after reports in Pakistan media claimed that a member of the Pakistan national cricket team was fined for allegedly misbehaving with a female hotel staff member in Sri Lanka. However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has strongly denied the allegations and labelled the report as false and misleading.
According to a report by Telecom Asia Sport, the alleged incident took place at the Golden Crown Hotel in Kandy, Sri Lanka, shortly before Pakistan’s final Super 8 match against the hosts Sri Lanka national cricket team. The report suggested the matter had been quietly discussed within PCB and team circles.
PCB Rejects Claims, Calls Report ‘Fake News’
Responding to the allegations, the PCB issued a firm statement denying the report and defending the player involved.
“The Pakistan Cricket Board has taken serious notice of baseless and fake news aired by ARY News regarding Pakistani left-arm fast bowler Salman Mirza,” the board said.
The PCB further stated that the broadcast contained unverified and misleading information, describing it as malicious and irresponsible journalism. The board also warned that it reserves the right to take legal or disciplinary action against those spreading false reports.
Earlier Report Claimed Player Was Fined
Despite PCB’s denial, the earlier Telecom Asia Sport report claimed that the hotel management had wanted strict action after the alleged misconduct incident.
According to the report, Pakistan team manager Cheema apologised to the hotel authorities on behalf of the player, and the cricketer was reportedly fined internally for misbehaviour. However, no official confirmation of this disciplinary action has been released by the PCB.
The report also suggested that the player might still be required to appear before the PCB disciplinary committee, where further action could potentially be considered.
Pakistan’s Campaign Ends Despite Win
The alleged incident reportedly occurred just before Pakistan’s final Super 8 clash against Sri Lanka. Pakistan managed to win that match by five runs, but the victory was not enough to secure a place in the semifinals.
The team eventually missed out on qualification due to an inferior net run rate and returned home in batches on Sunday and Monday.
Past Misconduct Allegations Referenced In Report
The Telecom Asia Sport report also pointed to past controversies involving members associated with Pakistan cricket tours.
It mentioned that young batter Haider Ali was arrested by Manchester Police last year during the Pakistan Shaheens tour of England over alleged sexual assault charges. However, he was later released due to a lack of evidence, according to the report.
Additionally, the report referenced an earlier case involving Pakistan team masseur Malang Ali, who was allegedly fined for misbehaviour with a female staff member during a tour of Malaysia.