PCB hits back at Muzarabani's agency, defends PSL ban on basis of "verbal agreement"

The Pakistan Cricket Board has issued a response to the stern statement made by the agency that represents Blessing Muzarabani after the Zimbabwe fast-bowler was banned from participation in the Pakistan Super League for two years following a supposed breach of contract ahead of the ongoing 2026 season.

As per reports, the Pakistani board has directed that while there was no official contract between the two parties, there existed a verbal agreement, which Muzarabani failed to honour, as a result of which the left-arm pacer will have to abide by the ban.

Muzarabani was signed by Islamabad United as a replacement player in February for a figure of PKR 11 million, according to Hindustan Times. The franchise had announced on social media that the player would feature for them in the 2026 season. Muzarabani later withdrew from the PSL as he was signed by the Kolkata Knight Riders as a replacement player for Bangladesh fast-bowler Mustafizur Rahman.

The PCB also added that despite a firm offer and agreement of terms between both parties, the player chose to forgo his responsibilities in favour of a conflicting arrangement.

On Sunday, April 19, Muzarabani’s agent, Rob Humphries, clarified in a statement that the player had yet to receive a no-objection certificate from Zimbabwe Cricket, which would allow his participation in the tournament. They added that the NOC could only be obtained by getting a contract from the PSL.

“We’ve remained quiet publicly over the last six weeks because we did not wish to create or cause any more animosity for the Pakistan Super League or the Pakistan Cricket Board than they had already created for themselves,” Humphries said in his statement.

“On 13 February, Blessing was approached by Islamabad United about a playing opportunity for the 2026 PSL. The deal was agreed subject to obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Zimbabwe Cricket. An NOC cannot be obtained without a contract from the PSL. Islamabad United/PSL announced the signing to the world via social media,” the statement added.