Afghanistan permits Mujeeb, Naveen, Fazalhaq to obtain central contracts, take part in franchise leagues

Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Naveen-ul-Haq and Fazalhaq Farooqi might be eligible to obtain central contracts and play in franchise leagues around the globe after the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) modified sanctions in opposition to the trio on Monday.

“The Afghanistan Cricket Board has modified the previously imposed sanctions on three national players—Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazal Haq Farooqi, and Naveen Ul Haq—following a thorough investigation. The modified sanctions will now allow these players to receive central contracts and participate in franchise leagues while ensuring their full commitment to national duties and ACB’s interests,” ACB stated in a press launch.

“Upon the players’ unconditional approach to the ACB and expressing a strong desire to represent the country again, the ACB initiated a comprehensive investigation. After evaluating the players’ initial stance in light of recent developments and acknowledging the importance of their presence in the national team, the assigned committee communicated its final recommendations to the board,” the assertion added.

Earlier final month, the three gamers had advised the Board they wished to be launched from their central contracts, following which ACB determined to delay the renewal of their 2024 annual retainers and never grant them NOCs (No Objection Certificates) – wanted to play franchise cricket – for 2 years.

While ACB has lifted the sanctions in opposition to the gamers, it should impose a set of measures on them, which embody a ultimate written warning, wage deductions, issuance of NOCs topic to prioritization of nationwide obligation and granting of central contracts whereas ‘strictly monitoring their performance and discipline in events’.

“The players have undoubtedly contributed to the team’s success and have represented the nation to the best of their values. We hope that they avoid making similar inconveniences in the future as we expect them to represent the country in the best of manners. The ACB and the rules are above all of us and it’s important to adhere to the regulations because there are no exceptions for anyone in this regard. However, such cases of a similar nature would be dealt with more strictly as we prioritize the prestige of the Afghanistan Cricket and the organization,” ACB Chairman Mirwais Ashraf stated.

Mujeeb was purchased by Kolkata Knight Riders for Rs. 2 crore on the IPL 2024 public sale, whereas Naveen and Farooqi had been retained by Lucknow Super Giants and Sunrisers Hyderabad, respectively.