PCB fines Asif

Mohammad Asif was detained in Dubai for 19 days last June after 0.24 grams of opium found in his wallet at the airport

The Pakistan Cricket Board has fined fast bowler Mohammad Asif one million rupees, approximately £7,500, following an investigation into his detention at Dubai Airport for possession of drugs.

The 26-year-old was detained in Dubai for 19 days last June after 0.24 grams of a suspect substance, later confirmed to be opium, was found in his wallet.

Asif had admitted to using the substance, although he said he believed it was herbal remedy given to him by an traditional Islamic healer.

He was eventually released without trial, largely because of the small quantity of the substance, and deported to Pakistan.

A three-member committee, headed by human resources director Wasim Bari, was subsequently convened to investigate the matter and delivered their recommendation to the PCB after the final hearing on June 1.

“On recommendation of the committee we have fined Asif one million rupees,” the PCB said today.

It had been thought the PCB might impose a suspension on Asif for the incident, with some politicians in the country calling for the player to be given a life ban.

The right-armer is already serving a one-year suspension after failing a drug test during last year’s Indian Premier League. The player was returning from that competition when he was detained in Dubai.

Asif’s IPL ban runs out in September when he will again be available for Pakistan duty.

“Asif will be available for selection once he completes the IPL ban,” the PCB said.

Asif has not appeared for his country since playing a one-day international against Bangladesh last year.