Several current and former Pakistan cricketers have dismissed reports suggesting they were involved in, or affected by, an alleged investment fraud linked to a foreign-based company, saying no scam has taken place in their case.
The clarification came after media reports claimed that a number of national team players had lost millions of rupees after investing in a business venture allegedly run by an individual based in the United States.
Visit Times of Karachi website for the latest news-related content
Players told that while they did invest in the company, they have not experienced any fraudulent activity so far, according to Geo News.
“The issue surfaced after only two cheques of other players were bounced, which led to media speculation of fraud. The company remains in contact with us and assured that all pending payments will be cleared by March,” the players said.
According to the players, one investor who had put in a principal amount of Rs40 million recently received 200,000 dirhams, suggesting that payments are still being made.
Reports further revealed that Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi contacted the players to seek clarity on the matter.
READ: Pakistan might boycott T20 World Cup if Bangladesh opt out: reports
The players assured him that there was no serious issue at present and said they would immediately report any problem if it arose.
They also confirmed that the company’s owner, who is currently in Dubai, is in regular contact with them.
The owner of the investment company also spoke to the media outlet to present his side of the story.
He said Pakistani cricketers have been investing with him since 2023 and that all investments are backed by written agreements.
He added that all players involved hold guarantee cheques issued by the company.
Rejecting claims of fraud, the owner stated that he has never been to the United States and does not hold a US visa.
He reiterated that he is based in Dubai and remains in touch with all the cricketers.
Earlier reports had alleged a large-scale fraud involving current and former Pakistan players, including a former captain, despite no formal complaints being filed with authorities.
Reports further revealed that several players chose to invest after being influenced by a former skipper, with promises of unusually high returns.
Follow the Times of Karachi channel on WhatsApp
Some reports also claimed that a well-known agent of Pakistani cricketers was among those who reportedly suffered losses.
So far, no official complaint has been lodged, and the players maintain that the situation does not amount to fraud at this stage.
