Naved ‘hopeful’ of being cleared

LAHORE: Banned all-rounder Rana Navedul Hasan remains hopeful of being able to resume his international career following a meeting with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Ijaz Butt in Lahore yesterday.

Naved, one of seven players slapped with fines or bans following Pakistan’s tour of Australia, is the only one apart from Younus Khan not to have his punishment overturned.

“I’m hopeful that after today’s meeting things will be sorted quickly,” said Rana following the meeting at the Gaddafi Stadium. “This meeting was postponed due to the chairman’s commitments but he was able to meet me today and I hope for good news soon.”

According to Naved, the chairman was not aware of his appeal and request to be treated in a similar manner to the other players. The all-rounder added that he looked forward to a “positive response” to his 12-month ban and Rs2 million fine now that he was able to present his views to the chairman.

The punishments were handed out on recommendation of the inquiry committee that was set up to look into Pakistan’s performance in Australia where they lost three Tests, five One-Day Internationals and a one-off Twenty20. The all-rounder, however, expressed his eagerness to represent Pakistan.

“I have lot of cricket left in me and I am desperate to play for Pakistan. With things hopefully clearing in the next couple of days, I am optimistic that I will be given a chance to play the series against South Africa.”

Published in The Express Tribune, September 25^th, 2010.