Moin Khan ordered to return back to Pakistan by PCB after casino controversy

Moin Khan (L) and Misbah-ul-Haq in an animated conversation before the World Cup

Lahore, February 24 (IANS)

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Tuesday launched an investigation against chief selector Moin Khan and has asked him to return home after he was reportedly seen in a Christchurch casino two days before his team's encounter against the West Indies, which Pakistan lost by 150 runs in the World Cup.

He allegedly visited the casino with his wife at around 3 a.m.

“While there are widespread allegations into the conduct of the chief selector having brought the image of Pakistan and PCB into disrepute, there is no concrete proof available to substantiate the allegations against Moin Khan,” PCB said in a statement.

“Considering the sentiments of the public, media and various other stakeholders, PCB chairman Shaharyar M. Khan has ordered Moin to return back to Pakistan immediately to explain his position vis-a-vis his visit to the casino.”

The statement added, “As a follow-up of yesterday's decision to probe the matter of the visit of Chief Selector PCB to a casino in Christchurch, PCB has instituted an inquiry into the incident.”

“Today, consultations have taken place over telephone with Chief Selector Moin Khan, Pakistan team management and media personnel currently in Australia and with other sources,” the board said.

PCB chairman Shaharyar told reporters that they will not take action without proper evidence.

“As per initial reports, Moin went there to have a meal two days before the match against West Indies and a Pakistani couple photographed him and made a video. We will not make anybody a scapegoat and will investigate this incident before taking any action.”