In a significant setback for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has imposed sanctions on three of its players, including key IPL performers Naveen-ul-Haq and Mujeeb Ur Rahman. The sanctions come as a consequence of the players deliberately delaying the signing of central contracts, prioritizing their participation in commercial T20 leagues over national duties. This development raises concerns about the potential absence of these players in the upcoming IPL 2024.
Sanctions Imposed by ACB
ACB revealed that Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Naveen Ul Haq, and Fazalhaq Farooqi deliberately delayed signing central contracts, putting personal interests ahead of national responsibilities. As a consequence, ACB took the following disciplinary measures:
1. Not Awarding Central Contracts: The three players, including Naveen and Mujeeb, will be ineligible for central contracts for one year starting from January 1, 2024. ACB will consider their participation in events on a case-by-case basis.
2. Delay Granting No Objection Certificates (NOCs): ACB considers the players non-eligible to obtain NOCs for two years. This means the players will not be allowed to participate in overseas T20 leagues, affecting their involvement in IPL.
3. Transparent Communication: ACB aims to transparently communicate its stance on the matter to the cricketing community, including the International Cricket Council (ICC), the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), Member Countries/Cricket Boards, and the Afghan public.
Committee Investigation
ACB has formed a committee to investigate the matter further. The committee will review the players’ actions and provide recommendations to ACB’s top management. This step indicates ACB’s commitment to maintaining discipline and ensuring players prioritize national commitments.
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Impact on IPL 2024
Naveen-Ul-Haq plays for Lucknow Super Giants, and Mujeeb Ur Rahman is part of the Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL. The denial of NOCs to these two key players could potentially lead to their absence from the IPL 2024. This would pose a challenge for LSG and KKR, forcing them to announce replacements for Naveen and Mujeeb.
Franchise Response
As of now, neither Lucknow Super Giants nor Kolkata Knight Riders have issued statements regarding the situation. The franchises may be awaiting further developments before making official comments.
The sanctions imposed by ACB on Naveen-Ul-Haq, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, and Fazalhaq Farooqi send a strong message about the importance of prioritizing national duties over commercial T20 leagues. The impact of these sanctions on the IPL 2024 remains uncertain, but it raises questions about the availability of key Afghan players for the upcoming season. Cricket fans and franchises await further developments and decisions from ACB as the IPL draws closer.