Former Pakistan captain Moin Khan was involved in a heated on-air exchange with former compatriot and fellow panelist, the fast bowler Sikandar Bakht, regarding Moin’s son Azam Khan’s participation in overseas T20 leagues.
The two were part of the discussion on Geo Super following England’s 2022 T20 World Cup win over Pakistan in the final. The panel, consisting of Moin, Sikandar, and former cricketers Abdul Razzaq and Aaqib Javed, were discussing the participation of players in overseas leagues, and how England – champions of the 2022 edition – have benefitted from sending their players to feature in T20 leagues around the world.
“If you look at England’s approach, they push their players to play leagues in Asia,” noted Aaqib. “A total of 139 English players have registered for the PSL. IPL players have been stopped from playing outside for 14 years. They haven’t performed in World Cups since. If your players don’t go abroad to play in England, Australia, South Africa, how will they learn? Just because India does it, our [PCB] chairman has also started denying NOCs for the same.”
Sikander then questioned if players should be allowed to feature outside during the domestic season: “On that – I don’t think they should be allowed [to play outside] during the season. Do England send their players during County season? Be honest. Off season, absolutely give permission. But if you are having your cricket season, your players shouldn’t go out and play).”
“These days, they’re given permission to play T20 leagues, which are generally off season,” responded Moin.
“No, we have to be honest,” continued Sikander. “In England, if players are allowed to play leagues during county season or not, you need to check. If your own cricket is happening, your players shouldn’t be going outside.”
“These are your thoughts.” said Moin.
“Your son goes and plays, that’s fine,” replied Sikander, stoking the fire.
“It’s not about my son,” said a visibly agitated Moin. “Look at me and talk, look into my eyes. You can’t compare the domestic season with international leagues, you’re wrong. ‘You son plays’ – you are saying weird things. My son deserves to play, that is why he is playing. You’re talking rubbish.”
The anchor tried to quell the argument by shifting to another segment.
Wicketkeeper-batter Azam, 24, has played three T20Is for Pakistan. He has played in, along with other T20 leagues, the Lanka Premier League and the Caribbean Premier League. According to Cricbuzz, he was set to participate in the ILT20 league as the only Pakistani presence, but was denied an NOC by the Pakistan Cricket Board.
