Even so, Pakistan cricket team have been criticized for the failure of their T20 World Cup campaign in the USA. In addition to their performances, they are receiving a lot of harsh criticism for bringing their families with them on the tour. This decision has caused an uproar among fans and officials.
According to a PTI report, Pakistan’s cricket board is also mulling using a new defamation law against what it terms as “unsubstantiated claims and reports” about its cricketers and the management.
‘Wives, children, parents and even siblings’
As outlined in local media reports, about 34 players along with support staffs and officials constituted the national squad on this US trip. And the family members of these players were accommodated by the team hotel which comprised wives, children, parents and even brothers or sisters numbering up to 26-28 people. Subsequently Pakistan was eliminated from the group league stage matches after losing to India as well as debutants USA in New York.
For instance Babar Azam had his father, mother and brothers staying at team hotel despite being unmarried.
Another report said that: “The extra expenses incurred on having families is obviously paid by players but having family members around does hit the focus of the players.”
’60 rooms booked’
Media reports indicate that approximately 60 rooms were acquired where families stayed while accompanying their teams. This was mentioned in one report which referred to a more homely atmosphere within this group of performers who frequently ordered take-outs and went on short trips together.
Amir’s personal trainer
Muhammad Amir himself decided to bring his personal trainer without any financial assistance from his country during the world cup tournament though other nations already had foreign trainers, strength conditioning coaches, physiotherapists plus doctors that worked with them. During training sessions he always moved away from others after getting permission from board to do so.
PCB contemplating legal action
The new defamation law passed by Punjab government is under the consideration of Pakistan Cricket Board for legal action. This legislation will be directed against digital and traditional media spreading corrupt practices, or attacking the characters of Pakistani players without evidence.
What is this new defamation law?
The Punjab assembly has just passed a bill that covers digital media and defamation. Under this law, any digital journalist or media personality making unsubstantiated allegations or personal attacks on a public figure thereby potentially inciting public backlash may face severe fines and jail time upon conviction. The court must decide within six months to avoid protracted litigation.
This decision follows accusations against skipper Babar Azam, who was alleged by a YouTuber to have accepted an expensive car as a gift. The PCB’s legal department has already kicked off preparation of possible notices which would fall under the purview of the new laws on defamation concerning such claims.
