Pakistan’s former captain Rashid Latif went to court Wednesday, demanding sweeping reforms to the national cricket governing body including the election rather than appointment of officials.
He filed a petition against the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in the southern province of Sindh.
"Latif filed a petition against the PCB for the betterment of cricket," said a statement from the Rashid Latif academy, which coaches young players.
It said the PCB constitution must be overhauled to allow it to operate "in a fair and transparent manner" and provide for the election of officials including the chairman.
The chairmanship is currently a political appointment in the gift of President Asif Ali Zardari. The process has been strongly criticised by experts and former players alike, including the World Cup-winning captain Imran Khan.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) last year directed member countries to free themselves of government interference by June 2013 and to ensure that presidents of cricket boards are elected.
Pakistan opposed the ruling, saying it needs government support to develop the game and ensure security as it tries to revive international cricket which was suspended after the Sri Lankan team was attacked in 2009.
"Latif is convinced that the powers assigned to the patron of PCB are in complete disregard and violation of the constitution as they smack of non-transparent and discriminatory approach," said the statement.
"The blatant and admitted failure of government of Pakistan to amend or pass a new constitution in accordance with the directives of the ICC is a clear cut and flagrant violation," it added.
Latif, who played 37 Tests and 166 one-day internationals for Pakistan, is widely respected for blowing the whistle on match-fixing in 1995.
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Zaka behaves like a leftover dictator from the 60's. One day he's punishing the players, depriving them of their right to earn their living, canceling their overseas contracts, the next day he's showering them with gifts. He decided to plunge into Indian politics on a whim. PCB is not grooming talent, it's using its powers to dominate and reward. Pakistani players can perform at a much higher level if they are accorded the respect their talent deserves.
Rashid Latif always takes step in right direction. All cricket bodies and media should support him.
i though zaka ashraf is doing a good job but surely they can do with grooming the young talent both physically and mentally. Also they need to encourage green pitches so some fast bowlers can come up and replace what we lost to the spot fixing scandal