Pakistan cricket authorities were in a state of shock after prolific batsman Mohammad Yousuf on Monday left for New Delhi to play in the Indian Cricket League (ICL), jeopardising his international career even as he was named in the national squad for the series against the West Indies.

Pakistan Cricket Board officials confirmed they have learnt from Yousuf's wife that he would be playing in the unofficial ICL, dealing a severe blow to the national team which has witnessed a series of defections to ICL in the recent years. “He didn't tell us anything about his plans. His leaving like this for India and confirmation he is going to play in the ICL has come as a shock to us,” PCB's Director Cricket Operations Zakir Khan said in a hastily arranged press conference. Newly appointed Pakistan coach Intikhab Alam said Yousuf's sudden departure was hard to explain as he never got a chance to interact with him on his future with the national team.

“Until we get an official confirmation from Yousuf himself we can't say much right now. But if he has joined the ICL then he would be banned from all cricket in Pakistan,” Zakir said.

Beaten in flight!

Travelling to India on the same flight with Yousuf was PCB director general Saleem Altaf, but even he had no inkling to the batsman’s plans. “I asked him where he is going. He just told me he is going to India on a private visit and would return after two days,” said Altaf.