Akmal admits his mistake, apologises for breaching PCB anti-corruption code

LAHORE (92 News) - Admitting his mistake, Pakistani batsman Umar Akmal apologised for not disclosing offers relating to spot-fixing and breaching Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) anti-corruption code.

“About 17 months ago I made a mistake that harmed both my career and the sport. My mistake was that some people approached me, which I failed to report to the PCB’s anti-corruption unit on time,” Akmal said in a video message.

“I admit that my mistake had a negative impact on Pakistan’s image. I would like to apologise to the board, my family, the people and the fans,” he added.

The batsman urged the upcoming cricketers to immediately report to the anti-corruption unit, in case anyone approaches them for any suspicious activity.

In February 2020, the PCB has charged Umar Akmal with two breaches of Article 2.4.4 of the PCB Anti-Corruption Code in two unrelated incidents. Article 2.4.4 of the PCB Anti-Corruption Code reads as: “Failing to disclose to the PCB Vigilance and Security Department (without unnecessary delay) full details of any approaches or invitations received by the Participant to engage in Corrupt Conduct under this Anti-Corruption Code”.

Umar Akmal was issued the Notice of Charge on March 17, and has 14 days (31 March 2020) to respond in writing to the charge. According to Article 6.2, the range of permissible period of ineligibility for those charged and found guilty for a violation of Article 2.4.4 is a minimum of six months and a maximum of a lifetime. Umar Akmal was provisionally suspended on February 20, 2020.