Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has sent notices to cricketers Sharjeel Khan, Nasir Jamshed, Khalid Latif and Muhammad Irfan for their role in spot fixing during Pakistan Super League 2017.
According to a spokesperson of interior ministry, the cricketers have been asked to appear and record their statement on March 20 and 21.
The spokesperson further said that FIA started the inquiry after a formal request from Pakistan Cricket Board.
Also Read:PSL investigation: Mohammad Irfan charged, suspended by PCB
'Will treat spot-fixing as a crime'
Earlier during a press conference, Interior Minister Chaudhary Nisar had said that such players have become a blemish on the country’s honour.
Also Read:Cricketers found guilty of corruption should consider their careers over: Shaharyar
He said that it is a serious issue, emphasising that it is about the country’s image and honour, and not just about the Pakistan Cricket Board. “It is not merely a personal act [on the part of the players],” he said.
The interior minister said that apart from the investigation being carried out by the PCB, a parallel probe is being carried by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA). “PCB can ban players; it cannot send them to jail or file a FIR against them,” he said, adding that the FIA has been directed to treat the issue as a crime.
Also Read:Mobile phones of Sharjeel Khan, Khalid Latif handed to FIA
Sharjeel and Khalid were unceremoniously sent home after the first match of the PSL last month and were later charged in a corruption probe that threatened to undermine the tournament.
Mohammad Irfan continued to play in the tournament. However, was suspended after the tournament concluded.
Also Read:Ch Nisar directs independent probe into PSL spot-fixing scam
If convicted the players face life bans for violating the board's anti-corruption code by allegedly meeting a suspicious man linked to an international betting syndicate.
