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Lahore: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has warned several former Pakistan cricketers that they could face a two-year ban after participating in the Asian Legends Cup, an unauthorised cricket tournament held in Lusaka, Zambia.

The board said the event was not approved by either the International Cricket Council (ICC) or the Zambia Cricket Union (ZCU) and that disciplinary proceedings could be initiated against those who took part.

PCB threatens disciplinary action

In an official statement, the PCB said players who participated in the unsanctioned tournament could be declared ineligible for cricket- roles with the board and the Pakistan Super League (PSL) for two years.

The proposed sanctions include a ban on cricketing, coaching, consultancy, mentoring and other assignments associated with the PCB and the PSL.

Several former players involved

According to reports, several former Pakistan internationals were initially named in the Pakistan Panthers squad for the Asian Legends Cup. However, some players, including Mohammad Hafeez, Shoaib Malik, Wahab Riaz, Sohail Tanvir and Umar Akmal, reportedly withdrew after learning that the tournament lacked official approval.

Players who featured in the July 31 match against the Asian XI reportedly included Mohammad Irfan, Imran Nazir, Taufeeq Umar, Rahat Ali, Yasir Shah, Zahid Mahmood, Hasan Raza and Ibrar Hussain.

Tournament ended abruptly

The organisers reportedly called off the tournament on Tuesday following the controversy.

The PCB stated that the ICC considers the competition an unsanctioned cricket event under its regulations governing the sanctioning of tournaments and player participation. The board also noted that the event had not received approval from the Zambia Cricket Union.

The PCB is expected to review the involvement of each player before deciding on any disciplinary measures.