LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Tuesday imposed a two-edition ban on Zimbabwe fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani for breaching his contractual commitments with Islamabad United in the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL).

The 29-year-old had agreed to represent Islamabad United after going unsold in both the PSL and Indian Premier League (IPL) auctions. However, he later withdrew from the PSL to join IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders as a replacement for Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman.

Following a disciplinary review, the PCB declared Muzarabani ineligible to participate in the next two editions of the PSL with immediate effect.

“The PCB has reaffirmed its commitment to the highest standards of professional conduct and the sanctity of contractual agreements within the HBL PSL,” the board said in a statement.

It added that despite a clear offer and acceptance of essential terms, the player chose to disregard his obligations in favour of a conflicting arrangement.

“The attempt to move away from such commitments without valid cause is a violation of contractual obligations and principles of good faith that govern global professional sports,” the statement noted.

The PCB emphasised that once essential terms — including remuneration and structure — are agreed upon through written correspondence, they constitute a binding agreement.

The board further stated that professionalism in franchise-based leagues required transparency and consistency, warning that such conduct, if left unchecked, could undermine the confidence of franchises and stakeholders.

“The sanction serves as a necessary measure to safeguard the professional environment of the PSL,” the PCB said, adding that the league would not compromise on its ethical framework despite the increasing scheduling challenges in international cricket.

The IPL and PSL have been held almost simultaneously in recent years, making it difficult for international players to feature in both tournaments.

Muzarabani’s ban follows a similar case last year when South Africa’s Corbin Bosch was handed a one-edition ban after opting to play in the IPL instead of representing Peshawar Zalmi in the PSL.

The PCB maintained that the latest decision reflected the seriousness of the breach and its resolve to uphold contractual integrity in the league.

Published in Dawn, April 15th, 2026