August 16, 2007	Thursday	Sha’aban 2, 1428

KARACHI, Aug 15: Dashing all-rounder Shahid Afridi on Wednesday issued a strong rebuttal to the alleged reports of some Pakistani players having ganged up against Zakir Khan, the PCB Director Cricket Operations.

Talking to Dawn before his departure for London on a short visit, Afridi described the reports as totally false and uncalled for.

“I can categorically say that there is no truth whatsoever in these reports of players revolting against the Pakistan Cricket Board or its officials,” he said. “Our aim is clear – we want to win the Twenty20 World Championship in South Africa. We are busy preparing for that event.”

Afridi added that there was complete harmony between players and the PCB. “Why should we jeopardize our relationship with the cricket board? As professionals we are bound to play and are focusing our attention for the forthcoming season which is important for Pakistan.

“The PCB is providing us the opportunity to redeem ourselves after the catastrophic events at the World Cup in March when we not only failed to progress beyond the first round, but also lost [our coach] Bob Woolmer for ever,” he remarked.

Afridi reiterated that the players were behind the PCB. “As I said earlier, we have no differences with any of the officials. These reports are misleading and out of context. There may be a difference of opinion on some of the things, but that’s part and parcel of the society in which we live.”

Meanwhile, Zakir himself expressed his shock and disbelief over the news. “I just arrived from Dubai where I had gone for a short holiday with my family. All I can tell at this point of time is that it is a conspiracy that is being hatched against me,” the PCB official told Dawn from Lahore.

“Players have developed a good rapport with me and my relationship with them is cordial. In fact, we regard ourselves as good friends.”

Zakir, without naming anyone, maintained that he would be investigating into the case to find out the real miscreants. “Some elements are bent upon destroying the image of Pakistan cricket. What would they achieve by getting rid of me?” he asked. “As long as Pakistan cricket needs my services I shall serve it to the best of my abilities.”