PCB to impose media gag on players

Pakistan's centrally contracted players will have to seek permission from the board (PCB) before speaking to the media, once the new code of conduct takes effect. Ijaz Butt, the PCB chairman, has said the board is tweaking its existing code in order to prevent controversies and leaks to the media from the players.

"We have a code of conduct in the existing contracts but it has loopholes and is not spelt out clearly. The new code will be stricter and carry more penalties," Butt told Reuters. "The idea of the new code is to stop players from speaking on team and cricket matters that have negative effects and create controversies."

Butt said that only the captain, coach and manager have the freedom to speak to the media without permission. Other players who intend to give interviews, make statements or television appearances will have to seek clearance from the PCB.

Pakistan cricket plunged into controversy yet again after its semi-final exit from the ICC Champions Trophy, from allegations of match-fixing to the resignation of the captain Younis Khan, which was later rejected by the PCB. There were also murmurs that certain players were unhappy with Younis' captaincy.

"We have seen a spate of statements from some players which were not needed and only caused problems," Butt said.

The PCB is expected to award new central contracts by the end of the year.