August 27, 2008	Wednesday	Sha'aban 24, 1429

ISLAMABAD, Aug 26: Federal Sports Minister Najamuddin Khan, Federal Law Minister Farooq H Naek and PPP-MNA Pir Aftab Jilani have emerged as strong contenders to head Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) ad-hoc body, high-placed government sources told Dawn on Tuesday.

“We have received a summary forwarded by the Sports Ministry for the three contenders for PCB’s ad hoc committee,” the sources confirmed.

“The Sports Ministry has also requested for the suspension of the boards’ constitution and setting up an ad-hoc body to run the day-to-day affairs of PCB,” added the sources. The current summary, the sources said, speaks more about managing the organization with a new constitution to be implemented within months which would be transparent, consultative and democratic.

When asked about Ijaz Butt’s candidature for the coveted post, the sources pointed out that it depended largely on the Prime Minister who would give final nod on the matter.

All of the three contenders have no background or links with the game whatsoever and, if appointed, are likely to face severe criticism from the media and the experts of the game. “It all depends on the prime minister to approve or reject the summary who has yet to respond to the Sports Ministry on the said issue,” the sources added.

“A delay in the decision is damaging for cricket and we know it’s hampering the working of the board as well” confided a source when querried about the delay in the matter.

“Dr Ashraf’s resignation has been accepted and there are no chances that he will be called back again for the job” said another source. “Dr Ashraf has also not been approached to suggest any candidate for the job.”