Islamabad, Jan 24 : Pakistan team manager Naveed Akram Cheema has reacted strongly to reports that players are under surveillance by government officials in the UAE, adding that the team management was unaware of any such development.
Reports suggest the government had sent officials to monitor the players and their movement during the ongoing series against England to avoid any repeat of the spot-fixing scandal that took place last year, leading to the sentencing of three Pakistan cricketers.
But Cheema refuted such claims, saying: “We don’t have any knowledge of it.”
“It’s not true because no one from the government has informed the team management about it,” The Express Tribune him, as saying.
“The players are playing with honesty. Can’t people see that with the team’s performance? I don’t feel extra monitoring is required by sending special teams. It’s not hard for the management to implement the code of conduct, considering the players are maintaining discipline. Such stories will only disturb the team’s rhythm.”
Meanwhile, fast-bowler Mohammad Talha has been ruled out of the Test series against England in the UAE due to injury.
“Talha developed back problems. When his pain subsides he will return home,” Cheema said, adding that Pakistan would not be calling in a replacement.
The second Test begins in Abu Dhabi tomorrow.
© ANI
