PCB to examine players' conduct on England tour

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has launched an investigation into the conduct of its players during the current tour of England, bringing the turmoil in Pakistani cricket to a new low. The most recent development adds a new dimension to the team's controversy, coming shortly after seven players were sent home for various reasons.

In a social media post, the PCB spokesman stated, "The Pakistan Cricket Board has initiated an internal disciplinary inquiry following media reports concerning discipline and conduct, which are currently being reviewed internally."

The use of the word "disciplinary inquiry" in the statement suggests that there may not have been an anti-corruption component to the incident. Unconfirmed information from sources indicates that it could be purely a disciplinary probe. However, reports that the PCB recently took the phones of a few players into custody raise the possibility of an anti-corruption component to the mystery.

It is important to note that Pakistani cricket has a long history of match-fixing, including the infamous spot-fixing scandal in England in 2010, which resulted in the suspension of three players.

The PCB follows its standard procedures when dealing with such matters. According to Amir Mir's statement, "the process is being conducted under PCB regulations, ensuring that all concerned individuals are given due consideration." It is being suggested that the phones were taken away to make it easier to conduct a forensic investigation into the alleged information leak to the media.

“At this point, any speculative reports or unverified claims that are being circulated on particular platforms, particularly those that come from hostile external sources, should not be considered credible. The PCB won't say anything more at this time. In addition, Mir stated, "The Board advises stakeholders and the public to rely on official PCB communications."

After seven players, including Salman Ali Agha and Mohammad Rizwan, were recalled following a disastrous second Test at Lord's, in which the Babar Azam-led team lost by 194 runs to go 0-2 down in the three-Test series.

Imam-ul-Haq, Ali Usman (left-arm spinner), Khurram Shahzad (fast bowler), Aamir Jamal (all-rounder), and Muhammad Awais Zafar were the other five players who were returned from the UK. In addition, a few coaches were fired, and a new coaching staff took over.

On September 9, the third and final Test begins at Edgbaston.