PCB formulates blueprint for Sharjeel Khan’s return by end of 2019

Sharjeel Khan is now ready to return to playing regular cricket having served out the ban handed to him by the Anti-Corruption Tribunal of the Pakistan Cricket Board in 2017. The opener pleaded guilty on five accounts during the second edition of the Pakistan Super League and was handed a five-year suspended-ban, effectively ruling him out of the sport for 30 months.

Now that the period is over, PCB’s Security and Anti-Corruption Code will be taking a call as to how to go about his rehabilitation and reintroduction to cricket. He will have to visit orphanages and undertake social service, give lectures on the PCB Anti-Corruption Code as well as link up with the players and staff of the national cricket team.

"I offer my unconditional apology to the Pakistan Cricket Board, my team-mates, fans and family for the irresponsible conduct that brought embarrassment to everyone. I request for forgiveness and assure I will show more responsibility in my future actions,” Sharjeel Khan was quoted saying by Cricbuzz.

The entire process is expected to be completed by the end of 2019, meaning he will be available for selection at the highest level next year onwards.

"I remind all cricketers to strictly and religiously follow the PCB Anti-Corruption Code as breaching it will only earn momentary gains but the consequences will be severe and last for the rest of the career. I have agreed on the future course of action with the PCB, including helping it in its education sessions on anti-corruption," he added.

The explosive batsman has represented Pakistan in 41 matches across all formats and has a decent total of runs under his belt. However, he stated he won’t immediately be getting back to domestic cricket.

"I will soon return to club cricket but will not rush into domestic cricket as I have been away for nearly 30 months and need time to reclaim my fitness and form," he said.

Lt Col (R) Asif Mahmood, Director - PCB Security and Anti-Corruption, stated that the action taken on Khan was necessary to ensure such actions are not repeated in the future.

"We met Sharjeel today in which he showed remorse and regret for his actions. The PCB never takes pride in penalizing its players, but it has a non-negotiable and zero-tolerance approach to matters relating to corruption. I hope this serves as a reminder to all those who think they can get away with violating rules as the PCB is vigilant and committed to eliminate the menace of corruption from the game," he said.