The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) is implementing rigorous new policies to tackle age fraud in junior sports competitions, deeming it a significant breach of its Code of Ethics and Governance in Sports.
Athletes under 21 competing in junior events must now provide either a National Identity Card (CNIC) or a B-Form, accompanied by the names of the selection committee, dental assessments, and radiological examinations.
Verified medical evaluations, endorsed by the federation”s president and secretary general, along with all supporting paperwork, must be submitted to the PSB for authentication. The PSB has warned of serious consequences for submitting falsified or dubious documentation, including disqualification from training camps, financial aid, and cash prizes. Additional disciplinary measures may also be enforced.
The PSB emphasized global concerns about age manipulation in youth athletics, noting that it fosters unfair competition, endangers athletes” well-being, and damages the credibility of sports systems. The board highlighted instances of athletes allegedly competing in age-specific groups with counterfeit documents, thus depriving legitimate competitors of opportunities and heightening the risk of injuries due to physical disparities.
Echoing the stance of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and other international sports organizations, the PSB reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and integrity in sports, advocating for a zero-tolerance policy towards age falsification. Eligibility for PSB training camps, financial backing, and cash awards will now be contingent upon the submission of validated and precise documentation.