The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has issued a warning for those participating in the upcoming league in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
BCCI has informally told cricket boards around the world that those taking part in the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB)-promoted Kashmir Premier League (KPL) would be banned from associating with leagues in India or having any commercial connection with the Indian board.
As a result, former England spinner Monty Panesar has withdrawn his name from the inaugural edition of KPL, due to begin on August 6.
In an exclusive chat with Republic Bharat, Panesar explained his decision to pull out of the tournament, slated to be played at the Muzaffarabad Cricket Stadium in PoK.
“I had the opportunity to play in the 'KPL' and I thought I could play again. However, I was advised that the BCCI is telling players who will play in the 'Kashmir Premier League' might face consequences. As I am just starting my career in sports media I want to work in India. Therefore I thought it would be better to not play in the 'Kashmir Premier League'. I don't wanna come between cricket and politics,” Panesar said.
When asked what message he would like to give to the players who are looking to take part in the controversial league, Panesar replied: "Every player will try to grab the opportunity to play again. But I hope if we don't play the league, India will give us opportunities to work. We want to work in India. We want to do commentary, coaching in India.”
Monty Panesar, who represented England in 50 Tests, 26 ODIs and 1 T20I, also posted a tweet on his decision to quit the contentious KPL.
“I have decided not to participate in the KPL because of the political tensions between India and Pakistan over kashmir issues. I don't want to be in the middle of this , it would make me feel uncomfortable,” he wrote.
KPL has six teams in the tournament which are named Overseas Warriors, Muzaffarabad Tigers, Rawalakot Hawks, Bagh Stallions, Mirpur Royals, and Kotli Lions.
Pakistan's popular cricketers Imad Wasim, Mohammad Hafeez, Shahid Afridi, Shadab Khan, Shoaib Malik, and Kamran Akmal are the captains.
