PCB introduces new ’stricter’ code of conduct for players following ICC’s diktat

KARACHI - Following the recommendations by the International Cricket Council (ICC), the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced a new code of conduct, applicable to both national and domestic level players.

“The new code of conduct is the first step towards fulfilling the ICC’s recommendations,” the BBC quoted Intikhab Alam, Manager of the Pakistan cricket team, as saying.

“There is a lot more stress on creating awareness among players about anti-corruption laws and regulations. We hope the new code will help us in dealing with the disciplinary and corruption problems,” he added.

The national squad, currently attending a brief training camp in Lahore, were briefed on the new code which they must sign before leaving for the ‘home’ series against South Africa, which begins in the UAE on 26 October.

“The players were briefed about corruption in the game, doping and discipline and I hope they will be responsible enough to show good conduct during the tour and in home matches,” Intikhab said.The board has made it clear in the new code that the manager will waste no time in stamping out indiscipline in the team. We don’t want a repeat of what happened in England,” he added.

The new code would also involve stricter standards of behaviour, which would include prohibiting players from directly addressing the media, and also barring them from using mobile phones, the team manager revealed, adding that unauthorised people would not be allowed access to the team’s dressing rooms.

Last week, the ICC had announced after its board meeting that it had recommended a special eight-point anti-corruption initiative, to which the PCB had agreed to. (ANI)