Afghanistan’s promising pacer, Naveen-ul-Haq, has been handed a 20-month ban from the International League T20 (ILT20) due to a breach of contract. The ban comes after Naveen refused to sign a retention notice offered by his ILT20 franchise, Sharjah Warriors, for the upcoming season, leading to a dispute between the player and the league.
During the inaugural season of ILT20 in 2023, Naveen-ul-Haq represented the Sharjah Warriors and delivered an impressive performance, claiming 11 wickets in nine matches at an average of 24.36. However, his refusal to sign the retention notice triggered a series of events that resulted in the disciplinary action against him.
Despite efforts by the ILT20 to mediate between Naveen-ul-Haq and the Sharjah Warriors, the dispute could not be resolved amicably. As a result, the league’s disciplinary committee, comprising ILT20 CEO David White, Col. Azam (head of security and anti-corruption), and Zayed Abbas (member of Emirates Cricket Board), decided to impose a 20-month ban on the player.
In a press release, ILT20 CEO David White expressed regret over the situation but emphasized the importance of honoring contractual commitments in maintaining the integrity of the league. He stated, “We do not take pride in making this announcement, but all parties are expected to comply with their contractual commitments and recognize that non-compliance can cause damage to the other party.”
Naveen-ul-Haq’s ban will be in effect until August 2025, which means he will miss the next two seasons of the ILT20. However, the ban does not affect his participation in other overseas leagues, and he remains eligible to play in tournaments outside the ILT20.
The talented pacer recently retired from ODI cricket, marking the end of his international ODI career after the 2023 ODI World Cup. Despite this setback in the ILT20, Naveen-ul-Haq is set to continue his cricket journey, with his next likely appearance being in Afghanistan’s tour of India in January 2024, which includes three T20Is.
The ILT20’s decision comes as a reminder of the importance of upholding contractual obligations in professional cricket, signaling the league’s commitment to maintaining its integrity and standards.
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