Rawalpindi Express to play in IPL

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has given permission to Shoaib Akhtar to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Lahore, Feb.20 : The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has given permission to Shoaib Akhtar to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

"The PCB has no objections over Shoaib's appearing in the IPL and the bowler is in India with permission from us to directly sign up with the leaguers, without signing the board's central contract," PCB Chairman Dr Nasim Ashraf said on Tuesday.

Shoaib, who after facing a 13-match ban and a Rs.3.4 million fine for multiple charges last year, is still under two years' probation and any further misconduct from him would have him facing a life ban, the Dawn reports.

Shoaib's attitude in the past is the reason for his not being offered the players' central contract for this year by the PCB.

Instead he was offered a monthly stipend of Rs.75, 000, which he turned down.

When asked how the PCB could recommend such an undisciplined player to play abroad, the chairman said he would not be playing there in the national kit.

"Shoaib has replied to the notice served to him on Feb 11 along with Kaneria for openly criticising the PCB. Though, I have yet to see that reply, Shoaib may face a life ban for his misconduct for which I may either take a direct decision or refer the case to the disciplinary committee," he said.

ANI