The Lahore High Court on Thursday again directed the federal government to give reply on a petition challenging the appointment of Zaka Ashraf as Chairman Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and adjourned further hearing indefinitely. Justice Umar Ata Bandial was hearing a petition filed by Tariq Asad Advocate against Zaka Ashraf appointment. The federal govt, federal secretary sports and chairman PCB have been challenged in the petition submitting that cricket boards around the world are run by independent governing bodies whereas government was controlling cricket board in Pakistan. The petitioner-counsel argued appointment of a political person like Zaka Ashraf on the post of PCB chairman is violation of ICC rules and regulations.
Asad also prayed to set aside appointment of Zaka Ashraf as PCB Chairman. Arguing his case, Asad Advocate said appointment of Zaka on political basis will ruin cricket further. He referred to performance of former PCB chairman Ijaz Butt who also lacked professionalism and his policies and actions harmed the game as rifts and divisions started in the team due to his poor management. Quoting the ICC rules and regulations, the petitioner said that no politically motivated appointments could be made in the PCB as it is bound to follow the ICC rules to qualify for international cricket. He pleaded that federal government be directed to follow ICC by-laws and frame a democratic constitution of the PCB or amend Article 5 so that all office bearers be appointed by elections.