Salman’s lengthy cross ends

KARACHI: Former Pakistan captain Salman Butt’s gruelling cross-examination was completed after the fourth day’s proceedings of the spot-fixing case underway against three Pakistan players in Doha, Qatar. According to information made available, fast-bowler Mohammad Amir also faced queries from the International Cricket Council (ICC) lawyers.

The ICC-appointed tribunal headed by Michael Belloff, wanted to spend most of the time listening to the suspended opener, citing his importance throughout the spot-fixing saga, according to an official.

“Salman owed a lot that had to be told to the lawyers and the tribunal because he was the captain when the matter was unveiled,” said the official while revealing proceedings of the hearing.

The examination that spanned for almost two days mainly focused on queries regarding no-balls by Amir and Asif besides cash and valuables found in the players’ room during the raid by the Scotland Yard.

“Salman said that he asked Amir to deliver the no-ball to unsettle the batsman,” said the official.

‘Amir echoed Salman’s
version’

The official added that Amir, during a shorter trial on the second session of the day, echoed the words of his captain and said that he was told to bowl the no-ball.

The young fast-bowler also told the hearing that he finalised a deal with bookie Mazhar Majeed who was already serving as Salman’s agent.

“Amir pleaded he only knew Majeed as a players’ agent and finalised a deal, according to which Majeed was to work as his agent after the England Test series,” said the official.

Meanwhile, the fifth day will start with Asif’s examination following which the tribunal will hear closing arguments from both the sides.

“The ICC lawyer Jonathan Taylor will give the closing statement if Asif’s examination is completed [on Monday] as the tribunal has already heard from all the relevant people.”

Pakistan limited-overs captain Shahid Afridi, coach Waqar Younis, team’s former security manager Khawaja Najam and Mazhar Mahmood, the News of The World reporter who revealed the spot-fixing scandal, have already recorded their statements.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 10^th, 2011.