Asif's hearing delayed due to terror attacks

Lahore, Nov 27 (UNI) In the wake of terror attacks in Mumbai, dope-tainted pacer Mohammad Asif today cancelled his visit to the city as the hearing of the drugs inquiry tribunal of the IPL has been delayed.

Asif was scheduled to leave for India today to appear before the drug inquiry tribunal on November 29.

''After the Mumbai attacks, I called them up to find out the status quo of the drugs tribunal hearing and they told me they will convey fresh dates later on to me,'' Asif said.

''I don't think the hearing is that important now. Whenever it is held I am confident of being cleared as we have prepared well for it,'' he added.

Asif had failed a dope test conducted during the inaugural IPL in which he played for Delhi Daredevils.

His 'B' sample, tested in Switzerland, was also found positive but the traces of the banned substance differed in the two tests leading to Asif challenging the validity of the process adopted to conduct the tests in the IPL.

Asif, however, if found guilty could face a minimum of two years' ban. He is presently suspended by the Pakistan Cricket Board for flunking the dope test.

UNI XC RKM RAR PM1725