James Faulkner withdraws from PSL over contract dispute, PCB deny "misleading" allegations

The Quetta Gladiators allrounder criticised the Pakistan Cricket Board for not "honouring [his] contractual agreement/payments". The PCB, however, have labelled his claim as "false and misleading"

James Faulkner has withdrawn from the remainder of the Pakistan Super League due a contractual dispute with the Pakistan Cricket Board.

Taking to Twitter to explain his decision, the Australian criticised the PCB for not "honouring [his] contractual agreement/payments."

The PCB, however, deny Faulkner's allegations.

Faulkner represented Quetta Gladiators in PSL7, scoring 49 runs and taking six wickets in six appearances for the franchise.

However, after being ever-present for the Gladiators at the start of the season, he hasn’t featured for the franchise since February 12.

^{Faulkner (left) made six appearances for Quetta Gladiators in PSL7 [Asif Hassan/AFP via Getty Images]}

In his statement, Faulkner said: "I apologise to the Pakistan cricket fans. But unfortunately, I’ve had to withdraw from the last two matches (February 18 and February 20) and leave the [PSL] due to the [PCB] not honouring my contractual agreements/payments.

"I’ve been here the whole duration and they have continued to lie to me.

"It hurts to leave as I wanted to help get international cricket back in Pakistan as there is so much young talent and the fans are amazing.

"But the treatment I have received has been a disgrace from [PCB] and [PSL]. I’m sure you all understand my position."

In response, the PCB said: "The PCB and Quetta Gladiators have regretfully taken note of Mr James Faulkner's false and misleading accusations and will shortly be released a detailed statement on the matter."

Quetta Gladiators face Karachi Kings in their final group match of PSL7 on February 20 but victory alone will not guarantee playoff qualification. They also require Islamabad United to lose their remaining two matches.