A major controversy has surfaced during the ICC T20 World Cup in India after Pakistan-born UAE opening batter Mohammad Zuhaib was sent back from the tournament to Dubai under unclear circumstances.
ECB Cites Disciplinary Reasons
In an official statement, the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) said that Zuhaib was returned to Dubai due to disciplinary violations.
The board added that more details would be shared at an appropriate time but declined to provide further explanation for now.
Zuhaib Rejects Allegations
Mohammad Zuhaib has strongly denied the disciplinary charges and accused the team management of unfair treatment.
In multiple video statements, he claimed that he was targeted because of his Pakistani background, alleging discrimination within the team setup.
He has requested the Emirates Cricket Board to conduct a formal investigation into the matter.
Claims of Pressure and Intimidation
Zuhaib alleged that members of the coaching staff and management repeatedly pressured him to declare himself unfit so he could be sent back to the UAE.
According to him, when he refused, he was warned that it could harm his future career.
He further claimed that he was later told to return to Dubai under the excuse of his mother’s health, without being given clear reasons.
Asked to Leave During Practice Session
In another video recorded from the practice ground, Zuhaib said he was asked to leave in the middle of training and informed that his return flight had already been arranged.
He alleged that he was told his hotel booking would be canceled if he did not comply, which made him feel intimidated and pressured.
Appeal to ECB and ICC
Speaking from an Indian airport, Zuhaib appealed to both the Emirates Cricket Board and the International Cricket Council (ICC).
He stated that he was verbally abused, sent back without justification, and never formally informed of any wrongdoing.
Zuhaib emphasized that the UAE team represents a multicultural nation and should not be divided along national or ethnic lines.
No Response Yet to Specific Allegations
So far, the Emirates Cricket Board has not responded publicly to Zuhaib’s detailed claims.
