Srinagar: After Usman Khan was included in the Pakistan coaching camp, the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) has launched investigation against the cricketer as his intention to play for Pakistan violates his contract with the UAE board.
As per a report on ESPNCricinfo, the ECB is undertaking a thorough examination of the matter to evaluate potential breaches of the contract not only with the board itself but also with the white-ball leagues in which he has participated in the UAE as a local player, including the ILT20 and the T10.
The outcome of this review will be concluded within the next fortnight and it could have significant consequences for Usman.
If a breach of contract is determined, it is also likely to affect the validity of the player’s work permit, which he has utilised to reside in the UAE and fulfil the residency requirement for eligibility to represent the UAE in international cricket. He still has 14 months remaining before meeting this criterion.
Meanwhile, Usman has defended by saying that he has not violated any contract, asserting that his contract includes a termination clause with a 30-day notice period.
The report added he is prepared for whatever penalty the ECB imposes on him and that the prospect of representing Pakistan, particularly after receiving an invitation from the PCB following the PSL, was too appealing to resist.
PCB inquired of Usman whether he maintained a desire to represent Pakistan, to which he affirmed.
This Monday, he was selected to join the Pakistan squad, presently undergoing training alongside the Pakistan military as part of a PCB endeavour to enhance player fitness. He joined the squad on Sunday evening.