The current media manager of the Pakistan cricket team, Umar Farooq Kalson, and the PCB’s General Manager (International Cricket), Adnan Ali, have come under scrutiny following the emergence of pictures and video footage showing them visiting a casino in Colombo. Both officials are in Colombo in an official capacity as part of the Pakistani contingent for the ongoing Asia Cup. Such visits to gambling establishments are prohibited under the ICC’s Anti-Corruption Code.
On social media, many Pakistani fans expressed disappointment and criticized the perceived “immaturity” and “carelessness” of PCB officials for engaging in gambling activities during the Asia Cup. Several PCB officials had traveled between Colombo and Lahore, with some stationed there permanently, as Pakistan was the official host of the Asia Cup.
In response to the news coverage, the two officials claimed that they had visited the casino for dinner, a statement that was widely ridiculed on social media and by some former test players. Cricket writer Omair Alavi questioned the credibility of visiting a casino solely for dining purposes.
The source indicated that the actions of the two PCB officials in visiting a casino where gambling was taking place could result in strict disciplinary action upon their return. The PCB’s Cricket Management Committee would likely address the incident despite their clarification.
Former Test opener Mohsin Khan expressed surprise and disappointment at the irresponsible behavior of the two PCB officials in visiting a casino during the tournament.
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Interestingly, during the 2015 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, Pakistan’s former captain and manager, Moin Khan, was recalled to Pakistan and subsequently dismissed from his position after being seen at a casino in Christchurch with his wife before a match against West Indies. The PCB Chairman at the time, Shaharyar Khan, emphasized the importance of adhering to the board’s and ICC’s Anti-Corruption Code, which strongly discouraged visits to places associated with gambling or potential corruption.
