The controversies surrounding Pakistan cricket have only increased in recent times, especially after the Green Shirts failed to make it past the group stage in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024. The Babar Azam-led side was expected to go further into the competition, with many even pipping them to be title contenders, but a shock loss to the USA and a heartbreaking defeat at the hands of archrival India meant that their campaign was headed towards a premature end. Pakistan's elimination from the T20 World Cup was confirmed when the USA vs Ireland fixture was washed out. Criticism has flown in from all corners, and one of them even was directed at captain Babar Azam, accusing him of match-fixing. Babar Azam Likely To Take Legal Action Against Former Players, YouTubers for ‘Targetting’ Him During Pakistan’s Dismal T20 World Cup 2024 Campaign: Report.

In a video shared on his official YouTube channel, a senior journalist from Pakistan, Mubasher Lucman, made a serious allegation against the Pakistan skipper, accusing him of match-fixing surrounding an incident where he was gifted an expensive car by his brother. After these allegations were made online, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) reportedly has taken cognizance of the same and decided to act upon it as well. The cricket board seeks evidence of these claims made and failure to provide any proof might lead to legal action being taken against those who made these statements in the first place. According to a report in Cricket Pakistan, sources close to the PCB said, "We are fully aware of these negative comments. Criticism within the bounds of the game is acceptable and there is no objection to it. However, baseless allegations like match-fixing cannot be tolerated under any circumstances."  Pakistan Cricket Board To Make Changes to Selection Committee Following Poor Showing in ICC T20 World Cup 2024.

"PCB has no doubts, so why should we conduct an inquiry? Those who made the allegations should provide proof. We have instructed our legal department to issue notices to such individuals and demand evidence. If not provided, we will seek compensation for defamation. A new law in Punjab ensures that a decision will come within six months," the sources further added. After Pakistan's premature exit from T20 World Cup 2024, an incident came to light involving Haris Rauf, who was engaged in an ugly spat with a fan. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi condemned the incident and also threatened to take legal action against the individual if he did issue an apology to Rauf.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 22, 2024 01:18 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).