Pakistan Super League (PSL) is in controversy again as at least three franchises defied strict Islamic laws by promoting surrogate advertisements of off-shore online betting platforms. The three surrogate advertisements of companies are XBet, Bajibet and Melbet.
The advertisements of these betting companies are displayed on franchises' playing kits. In addition, one of the franchises has signed a deal with a casino company.
The surrogate advertising is violating the ban on betting and gambling of any kind in Pakistan. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is yet to make a statement on the issue. This can also be taken as a silent nod to the franchises who have signed deals with these betting companies.
It is not just exclusive to the franchises. Some TV channels who are broadcasting PSL games have also shown advertisements of the aforementioned betting companies. PSL brand name is also visible on several websites who have betting and gambling advertisements.
Former Pakistan skipper Rashid Latif had recently criticised the PCB for allowing franchises to engage with betting and gambling sites.
“Asif Afridi banned from all cricket for two years! On one hand, players are banned for corruption but betting companies are encouraged as sponsors to domestic teams/events by cricket authorities,” Latif had tweeted earlier this month after franchises announced their sponsors.
On the other hand, an executive of a renowned advertising firm revealed that it isn't something new. The executive said that the surrogate advertising in PSL has been going on for last two years.
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"But this year it has become (more) prominent and no one really cares because everyone is looking to earn from the PSL. It is also happening in international cricket and other leagues," the executive told PTI on the condition of anonymity.
Also, during PSL matches advertising boards of crypto-currency can be seen as well while its trading is still debatable in the country. Fixing has been a major issue in Pakistan in the past three decades. The most recent player to get banned is all-rounder Asif Afridi who breached the anti-corruption code in PSL.
