Umar Akmal Pays PKR 4.5 Million Fine To Join The Anti-Corruption Rehabilitation Program Before Returning To Cricket

Senior Pakistan batsman Umar Akmal will join the Anti-Corruption rehabilitation program of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) after paying a hefty fine of PKR 4.5 million following the completion of his ban.

Umar Akmal was initially banned for 36 months last February for failing to report details of corrupt approaches made to him. A few months later that ban was halved; earlier in the year, it was reduced to 12 months, making him eligible to play cricket,

However, he was still handed a fine of PKR 4.5 million and will be needed to take the Anti-Corruption rehabilitation program, which now he has paid, according to a report by PTI.

“Umar has deposited the full amount of 4.5 million rupees with the board which means he is now eligible to start the rehab program of the Anti-Corruption code of the board,” the source was quoted by PTI as saying.

“But practically it will take some time before Akmal can resume his cricket career as his rehab program will take some time since the anti-corruption unit of the PCB is presently busy with the Pakistan Super League matches to be held in Abu Dhabi next month,” the source said.

Umar Akmal, who last played for Pakistan in October 2019, had requested the board that he be allowed to pay the fine in instalments, as he was not in a financially strong position. However, his plea was quashed by the board and ordered him to pay the fine in full.

I am fully ready and excited to play cricket again: Umar Akmal

One of the most talented batsmen to have featured in the national side, Umar Akmal’s career had gone downhill in the past few years, owing to his on-field ordinary show and off-field controversies.

Now, the 31-year old with still some time in his hand wishes to make a strong comeback. He hopes he could perform well and impress the selectors to be in the national reckoning again.

“I am fully ready and excited to play cricket again. It was tough being out and sitting at home with my bread and butter taken away. I am very thankful to my family, after Allah, and everyone who stood by me and helped me return to cricket,” Umar Akmal had earlier told media.

“I don’t want to comment on my national selection. It’s my job to play cricket and perform and it’s up to them [the selectors] – if they think it’s better for the country [to include me], then they will definitely give a chance,” he added.

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