PCB Restores the Long-Pending Pension of Sarfaraz Nawaz After Defamatory Statements Dispute
In a significant move towards reconciliation, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reinstated the suspended pension of former Test pace bowler, Sarfraz Nawaz. The decision to suspend payments to Nawaz had been made in January 2017 after he made unverified defamatory remarks against former chairman Najam Sethi. The restoration of his pension marks a resolution to a contentious chapter in the cricketing history of Pakistan.
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The suspension of ex-gratia payments stemmed from disciplinary proceedings initiated by previous PCB administrations due to Nawaz’s violation of the code of conduct outlined in the Players’ Welfare Policy. This decision was a result of his defamatory statements against Najam Sethi, who was the chairman of the board at the time.
Sarfraz Nawaz, who faced health challenges during his time in London last year, engaged in discussions with Zaka Ashraf, the head of the PCB’s cricket management committee, in Lahore. Nawaz assured the PCB of his adherence to the code of conduct, leading to a decision to restore his pension. During the meeting, Ashraf presented a cheque to Nawaz, signifying the settlement of the outstanding payments, while also emphasizing the PCB’s unwavering support for former players.
Zaka Ashraf expressed his concern over the treatment meted out to former players and pledged the PCB’s commitment to the welfare of its cricketers. He condemned the misuse of board resources for personal vendettas and assured every cricketer, past and present, of the PCB’s dedication to their well-being.
Sethi, during his tenure as PCB chairman, had initiated legal action against Nawaz for the unfounded allegations made against him. Recently, Nawaz appealed to the board to bring an end to the matter.
Expressing his contentment with the resolution, Sarfraz Nawaz stated, “I am pleased that Mr. Zaka Ashraf has reinstated my pension. In a voluntary capacity, I offer honorary services to the board to enhance fast bowlers’ skills for cricket’s advancement.”
Sarfraz Nawaz, a cricketing stalwart, represented Pakistan in 55 Tests and 45 ODIs from 1969 to 1984. He is renowned for his remarkable performance of 9 for 86 against Australia in Melbourne in 1979, a display of bowling mastery that etched his name in cricketing history.
The restoration of Sarfraz Nawaz’s pension underscores the PCB’s commitment to resolving disputes and supporting its players, cementing the principles of fairness and respect within Pakistan’s cricketing realm.
