PKF Bans Player Ubaidullah Rajput for Playing with India

LAHORE: The Pakistan Kabaddi Federation (PKF) has imposed a ban on Pakistani player Ubaidullah Rajput for playing on an Indian team and waving the Indian flag during a recent tournament, officials said.

The decision was taken during a general council meeting of the PKF chaired by its Chairman, Chaudhry Shafaq Hussain, in Lahore. The council approved the ban, and Rajput has the right to appeal the decision. His case has been referred to the federation’s disciplinary committee. Chaudhry Shafaq Hussain emphasized that no player will be allowed to participate in foreign events without a No Objection Certificate (NOC).

The controversy arose after videos surfaced showing Ubaidullah Rajput playing for India, wearing the Indian jersey, and waving the Indian flag during a tournament in Bahrain. Reports also showed him taking a lap around the field holding the Indian flag after the match.

PKF Secretary Rana Sarwar said that the Pakistani team at the Bahrain tournament was not officially representing Pakistan. Sixteen Pakistani players participated without obtaining permission or an NOC from the federation or the government. The team was self-organized and used Pakistan’s name without authorization. He added that a national player representing another country and waving a foreign flag is unacceptable. Action will also be taken against the unauthorized promoters.

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In response, Ubaidullah Rajput explained that he was invited by another team after his original team did not select him. He claimed he was unaware that the teams would be labeled India and Pakistan, and that he was informed only upon entering the ground. Rajput said he told the commentator that it was a local cup, not an India-Pakistan match.

He further apologized, saying, “I had no intention that flags would be waved or that India-Pakistan slogans would be raised. This was only a local cup, not a World Cup. I am a Pakistani and would sacrifice my life for Pakistan. If anyone was hurt by my actions, I sincerely apologize to my federation, teachers, and fans. Let this cup remain just a cup.”