Pakistan’s fast bowler, Mohammed Asif, who was suspected of doping and was detained in Dubai for the possession of illegal substances, has been banned by the Pakistan Cricket Board.
Asif was almost at the end of his career with a one year ban when he was tested positive for the consumption of a banned steroid earlier during the Champions Trophy in India. On Tuesday the PCB announced the immediate suspension of the speedster whose test result confirmed his dirty act in a casual dope test when playing for the Delhi Daredevils in the Indian Premier League.
PCB’s Chief Operating Officer Shafqat Naghmi said, “In line with our anti-doping policy, we have suspended Mohammed Asif with immediate effect”
“The board shall offer every reasonable assistance to ICC and other ICC members as they may require for the implementation and enforcement of their anti doping regulations.” He also said that the PCB will take a tough stance and will not assist the player in the legal battle. “He will have the right to appeal under the International Cricket Council’s anti-doping regulations.”
Naghmi said, “PCB is WADA compliant and has a comprehensive anti-doping policy which extends to all cricketers under the jurisdiction of the board,”
In the meanwhile Shoaib Akhtar who was also suspected of doping during the Champions Trophy has been included in the team. “We have shown a big heart by including Akhtar as it is in the larger interest of the game” said the PCB chief.