LAHORE: Faisal Khan Afridi of the PCB Elite Panel of Umpires has been suspended for five HBL Pakistan Super League matches and fined 50 per cent of his match fee for breaching the event’s Health and Safety protocols, an official said on Wednesday.

“The PCB had announced it will follow a zero-tolerance approach towards any Health and Safety breaches. This decision [to suspend Faisal] demonstrates our resolve and commitment to deliver a successful event in which all participants remain secure so that they continue to be available to their sides and entertain millions of fans following this event worldwide,” tournament director Salman Naseer said.

Faisal had pleaded guilty to the charge and offered his regrets.

The decision was made by the PCB Covid Committee, which comprises Salman and Usman Wahla. While making the decision, the committee took into consideration all facts of the incident.

Published in Dawn, February 3rd, 2022