Hamza’s two-year ban lifted after two months

Hamza Nazar, who was handed a two-year ban for providing incorrect information in a visa application, has had his suspension lifted just two months after it was imposed. 
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) overturned the all-rounder’s ban after he admitted his mistake and expressed regret. He has also been included in Sialkot’s squad for the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy.
The PCB announced a two-year ban on Hamza on August 6, along with a fine of Rs1 million. In its statement, the board had said the disciplinary action followed an investigation into information provided by the cricketer during his visa application process through the PCB.
The Board stated that Hamza had failed to provide complete and accurate information, submitted misleading details and concealed important facts during the application process.
The PCB had formed a three-member inquiry committee to investigate the matter. The committee reviewed the available evidence, gave Hamza an opportunity to present his defence and subsequently submitted its report and recommendations.
After reviewing the findings, the PCB imposed a two-year suspension on Hamza from all formats of domestic and international cricket, along with a fine of Rs1 million.
Hamza had been among the leading contenders for selection in Pakistan’s squads for the tours of the West Indies and England. However, the visa-related controversy had ruled him out of contention.
According to sources, Hamza later approached the board, admitted his mistake and expressed regret, requesting a review of his punishment. He appealed to the PCB, stating that cricket was his livelihood and asking the board not to deprive him of the opportunity to continue playing.
The PCB accepted his appeal and lifted the ban, while advising him to exercise greater caution in the future.
Hamza has now been named in Sialkot’s squad for the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy. He is also currently training at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore.
It is worth mentioning here that the 27-year-old has scored 748 runs and taken 26 wickets in 16 first-class matches.