ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken steps to address the long-standing issue of unpaid ex gratia payments to former fast bowler Sarfraz Nawaz, reinstating his pension and providing assurances of support.
Zaka Ashraf, the head of the PCB’s Management Committee, met with Sarfraz Nawaz on Monday to resolve the outstanding matter of unpaid ex gratia payments that had been discontinued since January 2017. The meeting took place at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore, with former cricket captains Misbah-ul-Haq and Mohammad Hafeez also present. During the meeting, a cheque was handed over to Nawaz to settle the unpaid payments under the Players’ Welfare Policy.
The discontinuation of ex gratia payments had occurred due to disciplinary proceedings initiated against Sarfraz Nawaz by previous managements for violating the Code of Conduct under the Players’ Welfare Policy.
Zaka Ashraf expressed his dismay at the situation and reassured Nawaz of the PCB’s commitment to supporting former and current cricketers. He emphasized that the PCB considers cricketers as valuable assets and will provide support at every stage of their lives.
“No cricketer should have to go through what Sarfraz Nawaz had to face, and I want to reassure every former and current cricketer, international or domestic, that the PCB considers them as its asset and will look after them at every stage of their life and in every possible way. They deserve to be loved and respected by their cricket board,” Ashraf stated.
PCB restores Sarfraz Nawaz's pension
Details here ⤵️ https://t.co/lB3Bwl8LvW
— PCB Media (@TheRealPCBMedia) August 8, 2023
Sarfraz Nawaz Expresses Gratitude Pension Restoration
Sarfraz Nawaz expressed his gratitude for the reinstated pension and the warm welcome he received from PCB officials. He also offered his honorary services to the board for the enhancement of fast bowlers’ skills.
Sarfraz Nawaz, a former right-arm fast bowler, played a significant role in Pakistan’s cricket history. He participated in 55 Tests and 45 One-Day Internationals (ODIs) for Pakistan between 1969 and 1984. Notably, he delivered a remarkable 33-ball spell in Melbourne in 1979, taking seven wickets for just one run. His illustrious career also included a standout performance in Australia, where he secured Pakistan’s second Test win on Australian soil with his best bowling figures of nine for 86.
In total, Nawaz claimed 177 Test wickets at an average of 32.75 and dismissed 63 batters in ODIs at 23.22 runs apiece. He left an indelible mark on first-class cricket with 1,005 wickets at an average of 24.62.
