PCB to Investigate UK-Based Agent for ECB Anti-Corruption Code Violation

Karachi – The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has initiated an inquiry into a case involving a UK-based Pakistani agent, Mughiz Ahmad Shearachikh, and his company, International Cricketers Association (ICA). The investigation follows Sheikh’s suspension by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) for violating its anti-corruption code. This incident raises concerns within the PCB and is prompting a review of its agent approval processes.

Background of the Case

Mughiz Ahmad Shearachikh and ICA had previously signed contracts for 18-20 centrally contracted Pakistani players. Sheikh, registered as a player agent with the ECB, is now facing allegations of attempting to bribe an English coach to promote his players. The coach reported these attempts to the ECB, triggering a formal investigation. Following a hearing, an independent anti-corruption tribunal found Sheikh guilty of four violations of the ECB’s anti-corruption code.

Players Represented by ICA

The following players were represented by Mughiz Ahmad Shearachikh and his company, ICA:

1. Aamer Jamal
2. Mohammad Wasim Jr.
3. Abdullah Shafique
4. Arafat Minhas
5. Haseebullah
6. Jahandad Khan
7. Kamran Ghulam
8. Khurram Shahzad
9. Mohammad Ali
10. Mohammad Hasnain
11. Mohammad Hurraira
12. Irfan Niazi
13. Naseem Shah
14. Nauman Ali
15. Sahibzada Farhan
16. Saim Ayub
17. Sajid Khan
18. Shadab Khan
19. Sufiyan Maqeem
20. Tayyab Tahir

Additionally, Imam ul Haq, Mohammad Haris, Sarfaraz Ahmed, and Usama Mir were being represented on a short-term basis.

PCB's Response and Future Measures

Following the surfacing of this case, the PCB has advised players to reconsider their association with Sheikh and ICA. Several players have already distanced themselves from the agent and his company. The PCB recognizes the evolving landscape of cricket, with increased opportunities in T20 and T10 leagues, and the importance of player representation for business interests. As such, the board intends to tighten its procedures for approving agents and their companies.

“Cricket has changed and with so many T20 and T10 leagues and endorsement opportunities available, all players have their agents to look after their best business interests. The PCB will now change and tighten its procedure before approving the registration of any agent,” stated a reliable source within the PCB.

Historical Context

This incident echoes a similar situation in 2010 when another UK-based Pakistani agent, Mazhar Majeed, became embroiled in a spot-fixing scandal involving former captain Salman Butt and pacers Mohammad Asif and Mohammad Amir during Pakistan's tour of England. Majeed, who served jail time, had close ties with other senior Pakistani players and facilitated their contracts in the UK. Senior players including Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Shah Afridi are currently represented by Saya Corporation, a company linked to former chief selector Inzamam ul Haq, which led to his resignation in 2023.

FAQs

• What is the primary accusation against Mughiz Ahmad Shearachikh? He is accused of attempting to bribe an English coach to promote his players.
• How many players were represented by ICA? Approximately 18-20 centrally contracted Pakistani players were represented by ICA.
• What changes is the PCB planning to implement? The PCB intends to tighten its procedures for approving agents and their companies.
• Has this happened before? Yes, in 2010, another agent was involved in a spot-fixing scandal.