As expected: PCB sends letter to ICC for Amir’s return

Board hoping that pacer can play again by Feb 2015

KARACHI: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has sent a letter to the International Cricket Council (ICC) seeking an early return to domestic cricket for banned Muhammad Amir.

ICC recently made changes to its anti-corruption laws which have made it possible for banned players to return to domestic cricket before the end of their suspensions.

Amir is expected to benefit the most from the changes and the board is hopeful that he will be allowed to appear in the domestic circuit from February 2015.

“The PCB has written a letter to the ICC asking them to revisit Amir’s case so that he can make a comeback before his ban ends in September next year,” a PCB spokesman told The Express Tribune. “The matter is now in the hands of the ICC and their Anti-Corruption and Security Unit head because they will decide the fate of the youngster. It will be a long process and will not be completed overnight.”

Amir, who is now 22 years old, was involved in spot-fixing during Pakistan’s tour of England in 2010, along with Salman Butt and Muhammad Asif and was given a five-year ban which will end on September 2015.

The fast-bowler has already starting his training in order to get fit ahead of his expected return to domestic cricket and Amir claims he already has several offers from departments on the table.

Meanwhile, former skipper Salman Butt has also increased his efforts to complete his rehabilitation after being told by the PCB that he will have to come out clean and accept his mistake with a clear heart.

Butt has been seeking the board’s guidance to complete the process of rehabilitation and a letter has been sent to him describing what steps need to be taken for him to gain the PCB’s confidence.

 

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