Pakistan MPs recommend life ban for Asif
Pakistan’s Senate sports committee Tuesday recommended that troubled
fast bowler Mohammad Asif be banned from cricket for life over his
detention in Dubai last year for opium possession.
The 26-year-old paceman was detained in June for nearly three weeks
as he was returning to Pakistan after playing in the Indian Premier
League (IPL).
Dubai police deported him without charge, saying the quantity of
illegal drugs found was insufficient, but barred him from the United
Arab Emirates for life.
Asif told prosecutors he had used the opium, but claimed he believed
it was simply a herbal remedy that would boost his energy.
“Youngsters will be encouraged to take drugs if Asif is not banned
for life,” committee member Enver Baig told a hearing at which officials
from the sport’s governing body were asked to testify.
AFP
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