KARACHI, FEB 20 (DNA) :  The Pakistan Cricket Board Thursday suspended Umar Akmal with immediate effect under Article 4.7.1 of the PCB Anti-Corruption Code, which means he cannot take part in any cricket-related activity pending the investigation being carried out by PCB’s Anti-Corruption Unit.

The PCB has decided not make any further comments due to the ongoing investigation. However, Umar Akmal has been suspended over doubts of possible spot-fixing during the Global T20 Canada tournament.

It has been learnt that the 29-year-old held meetings with suspicious persons despite PCB’s prohibition. Furthermore, Umar Akmal’s participation in a private ceremony is also doubtful. The governing body has confiscated Umar Akmal’s mobile phones for further investigation.

Meanwhile, Quetta Gladiators are allowed to apply for Umar Akmal’s replacement in the HBL Pakistan Super League 2020. The defending champions will take on two-time former winners Islamabad United in the opening match, which will commence later today at 9pm (PST).

Article 4.7.1

Article 4.7.1 read as: Where either (a) the PCB decides to charge a Participant with an offence under this Anti-Corruption Code; or (b) the PCB considers that there are other exceptional circumstances relevant to a Participant (for example, where any relevant police authority has arrested and/or charged a Participant with an offence under any relevant criminal law in respect of facts or circumstances that may also constitute an offence under this Anti-Corruption Code), it, shall have the discretion, in circumstances where it considers that the integrity of the sport could otherwise be seriously undermined, to Provisionally Suspend the Participant pending the Anti-Corruption Tribunal’s determination of whether he/she has committed an offence. Any decision to Provisionally Suspend the Participant will be communicated to the Participant in writing, with a copy sent at the same time to the ICC and, where applicable, the National Cricket Federation to which the Participant is affiliated.