Thaindian News

Karachi, Sep 12 (IANS) Pakistan’s comeback pacer Mohammad Asif has been asked by the cricket board to attend the training camp involving the country’s under-19 cricketers to prepare for the Champions Trophy that begins in South Africa Sep 22.
According to sources, Asif has been told to regain his rhythm by bowling extensively during the under-19 camp.

The dope-tainted fast bowler is a part of Pakistan’s 15-man squad for the Champions Trophy but can only join the team the day the elite eight-nation event will begin.

He is currently serving a one-year ban for testing positive for banned anabolic steroid nandrolone during the inaugural Indian Premier League (IPL) season last summer. The ban ends Sep 22, a day before Pakistan’s Champions Trophy opener against the West Indies at the Wanderers.

However, the Pakistan team management has decided against fielding Asif in the opening match and will take a decision on his inclusion in the playing eleven for the Group A matches against India and Australia after landing in South Africa.

Pakistan coach Intikhab Alam is of the view that Asif will need some time to regain his form as he will be returning to international cricket after a gap of almost 18 months.

Skipper Younis Khan is also not in favour of fielding Asif in the Champions Trophy without testing his form and fitness.

Asif, 26, is still regarded by many as Pakistan’s most dangerous bowler in spite of the fact that he hasn’t played for the national team since April 2008 because of fitness and disciplinary problems.