Organisers raise concerns over alleged irregularities in East Zone Cricket Association
Organisers raise concerns over alleged irregularities in East Zone Cricket Association
LAHORE: A large number of organisers affiliated with the East Zone Cricket Association have expressed serious concerns over alleged irregularities, mismanagement, and misuse of authority within the organisation.
According to the organisers, recent developments have raised questions about transparency and governance, with several decisions reportedly undermining the integrity of the cricket system and affecting the rights of local players.
They claimed that certain individuals are using the name of late Javed Ali to create confusion within cricket circles. While acknowledging his valuable contributions to the sport, organisers alleged that some current office-bearers are exploiting his legacy for personal interests. They further stated that the same individuals were previously involved in creating divisions within the Javed Ali group.
The organisers also accused certain officials of misusing their authority in the selection process for the Challenge Cup, alleging that more than 140 players were included through non-transparent means, with several not going through proper selection procedures. They said this practice clearly violated merit.
They revealed that the matter had also drawn scrutiny from the Pakistan Cricket Board, with the East Zone reportedly facing questioning over the issue. At that stage, Khawaja Nadeem, President of the Lahore Region Cricket Association, intervened and helped prevent potential disciplinary action against the officials. However, organisers alleged that those same individuals are now running a negative campaign against him.
The organisers further claimed that the same group has previously contributed to a negative environment in local cricket. They also alleged that the East Zone treasurer conspired against his benefactor Sarfaraz Ahmed, adding that many organisers are aware of these developments.
Concerns were also raised regarding alleged favouritism in player selection, with claims that players from outside Lahore, particularly from Faisalabad, were given undue preference, limiting opportunities for local talent.
Financial matters were also questioned, although no specific details were disclosed.
Despite these issues, organisers emphasised that merit has historically been upheld at the Lahore regional level, pointing to consistent performances in various age-group competitions, including Under-15, Under-17, Under-19, and national T20 tournaments.
They further alleged that over the past three years, decisions within the East Zone Cricket Association have increasingly been influenced by personal preferences, with certain players repeatedly selected, appointed as captains, and supported by coaches and managers from the same clubs.
As an example, organisers noted that three out of six team captains in the recent Challenge Cup belong to the treasurer’s club, which they described as clear evidence of ongoing bias and mismanagement within the zone.
