Zaka Ashraf speaks to the press regarding Shahid Afridi's captaincy aspirations, Kamran Akmal's on-going hearing, the ICC meeting, and Sialkot Stallions' invitation to the CLT20

July 5th 2012

Zaka Ashraf spoke to the press yesterday, discussing a range of topics posed by the journalists present.


On Afridi saying he would be willing to take the captaincy if offered

Whatever decisions the Pakistan Cricket Board has been made, we are very confident the team will perform. Hafeez is a great talent and we are still confident in his leadership of the T20.

The Afridi interview you are referring to he was specifically asked “if you are offered the captaincy, would you take it?” There is no harm in it. Shahid Afridi has a lot of talent and he'll play for Pakistan as a very strong bowler as part of the team. The whole team will need to perform.

The team was discussed with Dav Whatmore and Hafeez for the Sri Lanka matches.


On Kamran Akmal

Kamran Akmal will receive a hearing in which he can present his case and it will be considered.


The ICC

I held a good meeting with the ICC. The ICC Chief Executive attended and Asian Cricket Council Chairman, there were plenty of discussion but at the moment. It was a good meeting.

I also held a side-meeting with [BCCI president] Srinivasan who informed me he has been busy with the matter regarding the Indian players [accused of corruption in the IPL].

Therefore, has been unable to discuss Pakistan [matches] with the board and needs more time. He also says he will get back to me on a bi-lateral series once discussed with the board.


On Mohammad Amir and potential reduction of his ban from the ICC

There have been no such signals from the ICC. The ICC did discuss the importance of rehabilitation so he is aware of the mistakes he has made.

If the ICC does make a decision, the PCB will consider it.


On Sialkot Stallions in the Champions League

[On the PCB's Domestic T20 Completion]The documentation on the Champions League is currently being worked on and we are looking at in detail. Companies will then come in and buy the teams

[On the T20 Champions League] The Sialkot Stallions have received their application from the Indian cricket board and they will travel to South Africa and we have high hopes of them performing well and representing Pakistan and their region. Our prayers are with them.