Pakistan's Umar Akmal appeals against one-match ban

Pakistan batsman Umar Akmal has appealed against his one-match ban for a breach of clothing regulations.

The 25-year-old was deemed to have violated Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) rules in a domestic match last week and incurred a suspension which would rule him out of the first Twenty20 international against New Zealand on Friday.

Umar had been warned on two previous occasions about his conduct, and his third breach incurred the penalty from the match referee.

However, he could now feature against the Black Caps in Auckland after challenging his punishment.

A PCB statement said: "Umar Akmal was banned for one match after being found guilty of violating the Clothing and Equipment Regulations of the PCB in the recently concluded Quaid-e Azam Trophy tournament.

"The ban would have applied to the next match in which Umar was selected to participate whether domestic or international. Practically this meant the first T20 match between Pakistan and New Zealand scheduled to be played in Auckland on 15th January 2016.

"Umar has advised PCB that he wishes to appeal against the ban. Since Umar has opted to appeal against the decision, hence as per the PCB's regulations, the penalty of one match will remain suspended until the decision of appellate tribunal."