Doping scandal: Shehzad facing lengthy ban after conflicting statements

Opener is likely to face stiffer reprimand by PCB or else ICC and WADA might challenge their decision

KARACHI: Pakistan opener Ahmed Shehzad has once again landed in hot waters after it was reported that he filed different responses during his initial statement and later hearing in respect of his involvement in a doping case.

The 26-year-old's in-competition urine sample, which was collected during the domestic Pakistan Cup tournament in May, tested positive and an independent review board confirmed the result in June.

According to doping rules, the player has to fill a form before submitting his sample and in one section of this form, Shehzad stated that he had not taken any medications — which could impact his test results — recently. Shehzad had also tried to avoid the test by asking a fellow team player to go in his place but after the latter refused, he was forced to appear.

Later when the results came positive, Shehzad changed his stance during a hearing and stated that he had taken pain killers for headache before submitting his urine sample on advice of his wife.

Earlier Daily Express reported that the PCB is likely to impose a six-month ban on Shehzad after his dope test came positive.

The PCB is keen on dishing out a minimum possible punishment but this latest development in his case could mean a stiffer reprimand or else the International Cricket Council (ICC) and World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) might challenge their decision.

Shehzad is currently provisionally suspended and charged with violating anti-doping regulations after he tested positive for a prohibited substance.

The opening batsman decided against submitting a ‘B’ sample, in response to PCB’s decision, and also hired the services of renowned lawyer Babar Awan — who is also part of the ruling party Pakistan Thereek-e-Insaf (PTI).