Ahmed Shehzad To Face Suspension After Premature Exit From Venue, Umar Akmal In Trouble Too - Reports

Out of favour Pakistan batsman Ahmed Shehzad has landed in hot water as he departed the venue prematurely during a game, stirring a big controversy. The incident took place when he was plying his trade for WAPDA against SNGPL in Pakistan’s President’s Trophy.

The match was taking place at the UBL Sports Complex in Karachi from January 9 to 12. Before the game could finish, Ahmed Shehzad left the venue and returned to Lahore on technical grounds, according to a report in Cricket Pakistan.

Batting first, WAPDA scored 328 for 6 in 80 overs with Ahmed Shehzad’s 77 being the best effort with the bat. Ayaz Tasawwar also played a crucial knock of 75 runs. In reply, SNGPL scored 292 runs. While Abid Ali played a fine knock of 147 runs, his effort was not enough for his team to take the lead.

Ahmed Shehzad leaves the venue before the match ends:

In the second innings, Ahmed Shehzad once again impressed with the bat. He scored 70 runs while captain Umar Akmal scored 128 runs. WAPDA declared their innings on 330/5 to set SNGPL a target of 367 runs. And before SNGPL could start their innings and finish the game, Ahmed Shehzad decided to leave the venue.

The report in Cricket Pakistan stated that the right-handed batsman experienced discomfort in his back and left the venue after taking advice from the team management. He returned to Lahore for essential tests. Shehzad’s premature departure, however, has not gone down well with SNGPL and they have filed a formal complaint against the batsman, alleging a breach of domestic cricket rules.

In response to the complaint, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has hinted at establishing an investigative committee to look into the matter. The PCB will take action on the basis of the committee’s findings. If found guilty, Shehzad and the substitute fielder may face a one-match suspension, and there could be a two-match suspension for WAPDA’s captain, Umar Akmal. The team’s head coach or the manager is at the risk of being fined too.