Covering of Imran pictures in India regrettable: PCB

In a statement issued late Sunday night, the PCB's Managing Director Wasim Khan said sports has always played a key role in defusing political tensions

The Pakistan Cricket Board has expressed its displeasure after a couple of venues in India removed pictures of Pakistan’s former players, including a portrait of Pakistan Prime Minister and former captain Imran Khan.

The pictures of former players of Pakistan have been removed by the Cricket Club of India and Punjab Cricket Association, to show protest against the Pulwama terrorist attack which was carried out by Pakistan-based terrorist organization Jaish-e-Mohammad, claiming lives of at least 40 CRPF Jawans.

In a statement issued late Sunday night, the PCB's Managing Director Wasim Khan said the PCB Wasim Khan said sports has always played a key role in defusing political tensions. The ICC meeting is scheduled to be held in Dubai later this month.

"...we have always believed and emphasised that sports and politics should be kept separate. History tells us that sports, particularly cricket, have always played a key role in building bridges between people and countries," Khan said in the statement.

"... covering or removing portrait of former Pakistan cricket captain and Prime Minister Imran Khan and other legendary cricketers from one of the most historic cricket clubs and venues are highly regrettable actions," he added.

The PCB Managing Director also confirmed that Indian production company IMG Reliance pulled out of producing the Pakistan Super League matches.

"We have been informed by IMG Reliance that they will be unable to partner with us for the remaining PSL 2019 and PCB has reserved all its rights. The PCB always had a contingency plan in place...," Khan said.

IMG Reliance had announced its withdrawal as official production partner for PSL as a mark of protest against the Pulwama attack.

(With PTI inputs)