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File picture: Pakistani cricketer Sharjeel Khan (C) leaves with his lawyers after appearing before a tribunal in Lahore May 18, 2017. Image Credit: AFP

LAHORE, Pakistan: Pakistan's anti-corruption tribunal Wednesday banned opener Sharjeel Khan for five years over a spot fixing case that has rocked the Pakistan Super League, the latest scandal to taint the sport in the cricket-crazy country.

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"Sharjeel is banned for five years, which has two-and-a-half year suspended, after the proceedings of the case," said Asghat Haider, who headed the three-member tribunal.

In February, a number of Pakistan players were accused of trying to corrupt the Pakistan Super League (PSL)

Pakistan’s tall left-arm fast-bowler Mohammad Irfan was questioned by Pakistan’s Cricket Board’s anti-corruption unit for his alleged involvement in attempt to corrupt the PSL through spot-fixing.

This was followed by Pakistan Cricket Board's suspendion of Sharjeel Khan and Khalid Latif after they were allegedly involved in corrupt activities.

It is understood that Karachi Kings opener Shahzaib Hasan and spinner Zulfiqar Babar have also been questioned by Pakistan Cricket Board’s anti-corruption unit.

The Pakistan Cricket Board’s Anti-Corruption Unit is continuing with inquiries to root out corrupt practices and to safeguard and protect the integrity of the Pakistan Super League.

A PCB official stressed that that “the ACU will remain vigilant and continue to protect the PSL from the menace of corruption”.