Published: Sep 23, 2015, 04:19 PM (IST)
Edited: Sep 23, 2015, 04:19 PM (IST)
Former Pakistan captain Rameez Raja was extremely critical of the involvement of tainted cricketers Mohammad Aamer, Mohammad Asif, and Salman Butt in the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL). The trio, who were involved in a spot-fixing controversy in 2010, were recently cleared by ICC and allowed to get back to competetive cricket. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have kept them under observation but have allowed them to train at Lahore’s National Cricket Academy (NCA). The inauguarl edition of PSL — which could feature some of the biggest superstars in the world, such as Chris Gayle, Kevin Pietersen, Kieron Pollard, and others — is scheduled to kick off in February 2016 in either Doha or UAE. READ: 11 things you need to know about Rameez Raja
According to tribue.com.pk, Raja was vocal in his criticism of the decision to let the tainted trio play. He told a local news channel, “I have solid views regarding this matter. The crime committed by them is unforgivable. I personally would never want them to be a part of the PSL as it is going to be extremely dangerous for the model of the event and image of Pakistan cricket.” It should be noted that in his playing days, Raja was one Pakistan cricketer who was renowned for being completely straightforward and honest.
Raja went on to speak out against the “special treatment” that Butt, Asif, and Aamer got at NCA. “They get special treatment at the NCA. They are provided with young players to train with, they get their clothes washed and have food at the academy. This is not acceptable…With involvement of money comes in the potential of corruption, but avoiding such circumstances totally depends on high quality management and organising skills.” Raja is one of Pakistan’s most popular cricketing figures and is also a well-known commentator. READ: Rameez Raja: I don’t know where Pakistan cricket is going
