A group of sports journalists has filed a petition in the Islamabad High Court (IHC), challenging the decision of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to restrict media coverage of cricket matches.
The petition was submitted through Advocate Abdul wahid Qureshi, naming the Federation, the Prime Minister in his capacity as Patron-in-Chief, the Cabinet Secretary, and PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi as respondents.
The journalists argue that the actions of the cricket authority in Pakistan violate their constitutional rights under Articles 19 and 19A, which protect freedom of expression and the right to access information.
They claim they were barred from covering the first Test match between Pakistan and Bangladesh, despite their extensive experience in reporting on both national and international cricket events, including World Cups, World T20 tournaments, and Champions Trophies.
The petition contends that the move of the cricket board to restrict coverage is an infringement on press freedom, particularly in response to recent criticism of the board following the team’s performances.
The journalists demand that the PCB issue accreditation cards and that the practice of denying such access be declared unlawful.
