Pakistani cricket players ordered to stop wearing smartwatches

One of the Pakistan Players wearing a watch on their left wrist England v Pakistan. Photo by Andrew Fosker/BPI/REX/Shutterstock (9692139et)

Pakistan’s cricket team players have reportedly been told that they must stop wearing smart-watches in order to avoid being accused of match-fixing.

While meeting with the Pakistanis after the first day of their opening test match against England at the famous Lord’s ground, officials told the players that they should avoid wearing the watches which can be used to transmit texts and voice messages in a similar way to a Smartphone.

Two players, namely Babar Azam and Asad Shafiq were seen wearing the watches but there has been no evidence of any wrongdoing.

“I didn’t know who was wearing them but yes, the ICC anti-corruption officer came to speak to us and they told us this is not allowed,” Hasan said after Pakistan dominated play, bowling England out for 184 before reaching 50 for one at the close.

“Next time, nobody will wear them.”

Players are not allowed any communication devices during matches and this also extends to the dressing room.