Yousuf, Younus not given life bans: PCB

KARACHI: The Pakistan Cricket Board today clarified that it has not imposed life bans on Muhammad Yousuf and Younus Khan and only barred them from playing for the country in all the formats of the game.

Hours after announcing punishment to players, PCB issued a fresh release saying media mis-interpreted its statement.

"PCB today issued a media release on the report of inquiry committee on Pakistan team's performance. Some media channels have interpreted the first recommendation of the inquiry committee regarding Mohammad Yousuf and Younus Khan as being a life ban.

"PCB wishes to clarify that the recommendation of the Committee is not a life ban on these cricketers. There is no specified term in the recommendation for these two players.

"As and when the PCB deems appropriate, these players will be considered for selection for the national team," the new statement said.

The punishment meted out to players today created a furore in country's cricket circle as it was for the first time that such a harsh stand has been taken by the Board against the players.

Apart from barring Yousuf and Younus, Shoaib Malik and Rana Naved-ul-Hasan were handed out one-year bans.

Kamran and Umar Akmal and Shahid Afridi were put under six-month probation and were also fined for indiscipline during the Australian tour.