February 11, 2008	Monday	Safar 03, 1429

LAHORE, Feb 10: While the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has declared the Pentangular Cup, which started simultaneously in Lahore and Karachi on Sunday, a high-profile first-class domestic competition, unprofessional attitude both on the part of the management and players reflects its lesser status in their eyes.

First of all, the ongoing construction work at Gaddafi Stadium’s College End has become a noisy affair which obviously is not a perfect condition for the players to play a first-class match in.

Even though international umpires Aleem Dar and Nadeem Ghauri together with match referee Mohammad Anees on Saturday brought the matter to the notice of the PCB management along with a suggestion to kindly stop work during matches, it could not be met with an agreement as the deal with the construction company demands for continuity in order to complete the project well on time.

Although Australia’s March-April tour of Pakistan is still in the doldrums due to security concerns, the Gaddafi Stadium happens to be one of the four match venues when Pakistan plays against the team from Down Under. The ongoing work may also create problems, not to mention danger, for the players if they arrive here as per schedule.

Moreover, Pakistan captain Shoaib Malik did not lead Punjab in their opening match against Federal Areas, as he was giving a TV interview in Dubai at the time instead of appearing in the high-profile competition.

“Shoaib’s flight from Dubai was delayed so he could not reach Lahore on time to lead Punjab,” said a PCB spokesman.

Furthermore, Test reject Bazid Khan, while batting for Federal Areas, was not in proper kit as his clothes were covered with green patches.