Sigh of relief for Mujeeb Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi and Naveen-ul-Haq as ACB changes sanctions on Afghan trio

Mujeeb Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi and Naveen-ul-Haq have been named in Afghanistan’s T20I squad for a three-match series against India.

Kabul: Mujeeb Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi and Naveen-ul-Haq heaved a deep sigh of relief after the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) modified the sanctions imposed on them on Monday, the cricket board announced through a media statement on its website. The amended sanctions will now allow the trio to receive annual contracts and also compete in the global franchise competitions, while ensuring their full commitment to national duties and the interests of ACB.

Earlier in December, Mujeeb, Farooqi and Naveen informed the ACB of their intention to be relieved from the central contracts. In response, the ACB has decided to postpone their annual central contracts for 2024 and opted not to issue them No Objection Certificates for two years.

The latest development also means that Mujeeb, Farooqi and Naveen can play for their respective franchises in the upcoming Indian Premier League, which starts from March. While Mujeeb was bought by two-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders, Farooqi and Naveen were retained by Sunrisers Hyderabad and Lucknow Super Giants.

The ACB stated in its statement that they have adjusted the sanctions after an extensive investigation. “After evaluating the initial position of the players in light of the recent developments and recognizing the importance of their presence in the national team, the assigned committee has communicated its final recommendations to the board,” the committee said.

The trio will receive a final warning letter from the ACB and will also have a portion of their salary or match fees deducted. “Final warning and salary deductions: Each player will receive a final written warning and face a specific salary deduction from their monthly earnings and/or match expenses,” the report said.

It was also said that the board will give the players a limited number of NOCs while prioritizing national duties and monitoring their performance and discipline in upcoming events. “Limited NOCs: ACB will strictly consider issuance of NOCs to the respected players while giving priority to national duty and interests of ACB.

“Central Contract: ACB may award central contracts to these players while strictly monitoring their performance and discipline during events,” the report said.

“The players have undoubtedly contributed to the team’s success and have represented the nation to the best of their values. We hope that they will avoid similar inconveniences in the future as we expect them to represent the country in the best of ways,” said ACB chairman Mirwais Ashraf.

“The ACB and the rules are above all of us and it is important to adhere to the regulations because there are no exceptions for anyone in this area. However, such cases of similar nature would be dealt with more stringently as we prioritize the prestige of Afghanistan Cricket and the organization,” he added.

Notably, all three players mentioned above have been named in the Afghanistan squad for the three-match T20I series against India starting January 11. The Afghan team has already reached Mohali, the venue for the first match.

Afghanistan team vs India: Ibrahim Zadran (C), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (WK), Ikram Alikhil (WK), Hazratullah Zazai, Rahmat Shah, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Karim Janat, Azmaullah Omarzai, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazal Haq Farooqi, Fareed Ahmad, Naveen Ul Haq, Noor Ahmad, Mohammad Saleem, Qais Ahmad, Gulbadin Naib and Rashid Khan.