KARACHI: The Sindh High Court (SHC) has issued a notice to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), after accepting former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif's petition that demanded sweeping reforms to the board and challenged its constitution.

Latif, Pakistan's former wicketkeeper, went to court on Wednesday, demanding a restructuring of the board, and calling for the election of officials rather than their appointment.

He filed a petition against the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in the southern province of Sindh.

“Latif filed a petition against the PCB for the betterment of cricket,” said a statement from the Rashid Latif academy, which coaches young players.

It said the PCB constitution must be overhauled to allow it to operate “in a fair and transparent manner” and provide for the election of officials including the chairman.

The chairmanship is currently a political appointment in the gift of President Asif Ali Zardari. The process has been strongly criticised by experts and former players alike, including the World Cup-winning captain Imran Khan.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) last year directed member countries to free themselves of government interference by June 2013 and to ensure that presidents of cricket boards are elected.

Pakistan opposed the ruling, saying it needs government support to develop the game and ensure security as it tries to revive international cricket which was suspended after the Sri Lankan team was attacked in 2009.

“Latif is convinced that the powers assigned to the patron of PCB are in complete disregard and violation of the constitution as they smack of non-transparent and discriminatory approach,” said the statement.

“The blatant and admitted failure of government of Pakistan to amend or pass a new constitution in accordance with the directives of the ICC is a clear cut and flagrant violation,” it added.

Latif, who played 37 Tests and 166 one-day internationals for Pakistan, is widely respected for blowing the whistle on match-fixing in 1995.

Court cases in Pakistan can be deeply cumbersome and chronically delayed.