Uncertainty over Asif's return to international cricket

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Lahore, Oct. 19 (ANI): Uncertainty still looms over fast bowler Mohammad Asif's inclusion in Pakistani squad for next month's ODI series against New Zealand, as the Pakistan Cricket Board is awaiting the International Cricket Council's clearance to let the pacer enter the UAE, where he was detained last year over drugs possession charges.

The series includes three one-day internationals in Abu Dhabi and two Twenty20 games in Dubai.

The Daily Times quoted Pakistan chief selector Iqbal Qasim, as saying that Asif is an automatic choice for a place in the Pakistan team but the selection committee needs a go-ahead from the PCB before picking him.

Asif has recently proved his rhythm in domestic cricket. He took 5 wicket for 35 to help the National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) bowl out Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) for just 133 at the Gaddafi Stadium in the ongoing Quaide-Azam Trophy.

Asif was barred from entering the UAE after he was detained in Dubai for 19 days last June for possession of opium.

Asif was later released without being charged but was deported from Dubai, which means he cannot travel there.

He also had to pay a million-rupee fine apart from being banned by the drugs inquiry tribunal of the IPL. (ANI)