Rashid Latif seeks court help for PCB reform

KARACHI

Pakistan's former captain Rashid Latif went to court Wednesday, demanding sweeping reforms to the national cricket governing body including the election rather than appointment of officials.

He filed a petition against the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in the southern province of Sindh. "Latif filed a petition against the PCB for the betterment of cricket," said a statement from the Rashid Latif academy, which coaches young players.

It said the PCB constitution must be overhauled to allow it to operate "in a fair and transparent manner" and pro- vide for the election of officials including the chairman.

The chairmanship is currently a political appointment in the gift of President Asif Ali Zardari. The process has been strongly criticised by experts and former players alike, including the World Cup-winning captain Imran Khan.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) last year directed member countries to free themselves of government interference by June 2013 and to ensure that presidents of cricket boards are elected.

Pakistan opposed the ruling, saying it needs government support to develop the game and ensure security as it tries to revive international cricket which was suspended after the Sri Lankan team was attacked in 2009.

"Latif is convinced that the powers assigned to the patron of PCB are in complete disregard and violation of the constitution as they smack of nontransparent and discriminatory approach," said the statement.

"The blatant and admitted failure of government of Pakistan to amend or pass a new constitution in accordance with the directives of the ICC is a clear cut and flagrant violation," it added. Latif, who played 37 Tests and 166 oneday internationals for Pakistan, is widely respected for blowing the whistle on match-fixing in 1995.