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Journalism of Courage
Islamabad: A fresh row over distribution of money between coach Javed Miandad and rest of the players of Pakistan team has erupted over a reported payment of Rs. 1.7 million to Miandad in a Pepsi logo deal. While the players earned an average of Rs. 1.5 million each from the logo money, Miandad who wore the logo only in the dressing room took more money than the players, the Dawn reported here today citing allegations by some disgruntled cricketres. Miandad, however, claims he received only Rs. 1.2 million. An ugly row over prize money came to fore during the team’s Kenya tour last year when Miandad was paid from ICC knock-out tournament.
The crisis deepened on the eve of the home series against England with seven of the 11 players refusing to accept him as coach. As per the contract signed by Miandad, he was entitled for his share in the logo deal, the report said. It said Miandad, one of the five members of Pakistan Cricket Board’s advisory panel, claimed that he was working on honorary capacity. Contrary to this, he submitted a bill for Rs. 7.2 million for the four-month tour to Sharjah, Dhaka, West Indies and Sri Lanka last year. He was however, paid Rs. 2.7 million by PCB.
Afridi’s bowling action cleared
Islamabad: Pakistani all-rounder Shahid Afridi’s bowling action has been cleared and given a go-ahead by a three-member Pakistan Cricket Board committee entrusted with the task of analysing the leg-spinner’s action.
A PCB spokesman said that the committee comprising Abdul Qadir, Ijaz Fakhi and Mohshin Kamal found no problem with Afridi’s action and the report would soon be sent to ICC next week. Afridi was reported for a suspect bowling action by Match Referee Barry Jarman during the one-day series against England in October last year on home ground. Afridi, who is among the probables for the New Zealand-bound Pakistan team, said he was relieved by the decision. As per ICC rules, Afridi is free to play and if another doubt is raised within 12 months, ICC will appoint its own man to review and improve Afridi’s action. In case the problem persists, the same Pakistani panel will come into action again and vote whether Afridi should be banned or not.
No reprieve for West Indies
Perth: The West Indian cricket team headed to Perth today, knowing it needed an urgent form reversal or risk missing the tri-nations limited-overs series finals.
West Indies captain Jimmy Adams said his side would not be taking a day off before Friday’s match with Zimbabwe at the WACA, but would spend every day in the nets testing the bouncy surface for their last crack at securing a finals berth.
‘‘We have to make use of the time we have here as best we can,’’ he said. ‘‘We will be having nets everyday to try to get everyone prepared for what will be a very important game on Friday.’’
