ACB Sanctions Mujeeb, Naveen, and Farooqi for Opting Out of National Contract
Following their intention to be released from their annual central contracts, the Afghanistan Cricket Board special committee has recommended that the board not issue No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to Mujeeb ur Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi, and Naveen ul Haq for the next two years.
Mujeeb was signed by the Kolkata Knight Riders, while Fazalhaq and Naveen are anticipated to play for the Sunrisers Hyderabad and the Lucknow Super Giants in the 2018 IPL.
Following the proposal of a special committee, the ACB decided to postpone the trio’s 2024 annual central contracts as well, after they were discovered participating in commercial leagues and prioritizing their interests above playing for Afghanistan.
“The three players formally communicated their decision to the ACB, expressing their desire to release themselves from the annual central contract, effective January 1, 2024, as well as requested that their consent for their participation in national events be considered,” an ACB committee member was quoted in an official statement on Monday.
The committee made the following recommendations to the top management of the ACB:
1.No Central Contracts: Beginning January 1, 2024, the three players will be ineligible for the central contract for one year. When necessary, ACB will consider and decide on their participation in activities.
2. Delay in Granting No Objection Certificates (NOCs): These players will be considered ineligible for No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for two years. All present NOCs will be instantly revoked.
3. Communicate the ACB’s position to the cricketing community, including the ICC, ACC, Member Countries/Cricket Boards, and the Afghan public.
The Afghanistan Cricket Board’s decision is based on national priorities and is consistent with the ACB’s fundamental values and ideals. It emphasizes the importance of all players adhering to the ACB’s values and putting the country’s interests ahead of their own.
Delayed Central Contracts and No Objection Certificates
The ACB has decided to delay the 2024 annual central contracts for Mujeeb, Naveen, and Farooqi as a disciplinary measure. Additionally, the board has opted not to grant them No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for the next two years. The players’ involvement in commercial leagues and their prioritization of personal interests over playing for Afghanistan were cited as reasons for the board’s decision.
According to the ACB statement, the players had formally communicated their desire to be released from the annual central contracts starting from January 1, 2024. They also requested the board’s consent to participate in franchise tournaments. The ACB formed a committee to thoroughly investigate the matter and develop appropriate recommendations.
Recommendations and Sanctions
The committee presented several recommendations to the ACB’s top management. Firstly, the players would not be eligible for the central contract for one year, starting from January 1, 2024. However, the ACB would consider their participation in events when needed. Secondly, the committee advised that the players should not receive any No Objection Certificates for two years. The ACB immediately revoked all current NOCs held by the players.
Focus on National Priorities and Core Values
The decision taken by the Afghanistan Cricket Board reflects its focus on national priorities and the adherence to its core values and principles. The board emphasized the importance of every player maintaining these principles and prioritizing the country’s interests above their ones. It aims to send a strong message regarding the commitment expected from players representing Afghanistan.
Implications for IPL 2024 Participation
The sanctions imposed by the ACB have raised uncertainty over the participation of Mujeeb, Naveen, and Farooqi in the IPL 2024. Mujeeb Ur Rahman was recently signed by the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the IPL auction, while Farooqi and Naveen were retained by Sunrisers Hyderabad and Lucknow Super Giants, respectively. The ACB’s decision could potentially impact the plans of these franchises for the upcoming season.
Reaction from Franchises and Cricketing Community
The ACB’s decision has sent shockwaves across the cricketing fraternity. The franchises affected by the sanctions are taking a cautious approach and plan to “wait and watch” before making any official comments. The ACB has transparently communicated its stance to all stakeholders, including the ICC, ACC, member nations, and the Afghanistan public.
Upcoming T20I Series and IPL Schedule
Before the IPL, Afghanistan and India are scheduled to play a three-match T20I series starting from January 11. The series will serve as preparation for both teams ahead of the IPL. The IPL is expected to commence around March 22, 2024. It remains to be seen whether the ACB will stick to its decision or reconsider, allowing the players to participate in the league.
Conclusion
The ACB’s decision to sanction Mujeeb, Naveen, and Farooqi for their intention to opt out of their national contracts and participate in franchise tournaments reflects the board’s commitment to national priorities. The sanctions have raised doubts about the players’ involvement in the IPL 2024 and have garnered attention from franchises and the cricketing community. As the situation unfolds, it will be interesting to see how the ACB’s decision impacts the players’ careers and their future in international cricket.
