Asif vows to clear his name

23rd February 2011



Disgraced Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Asif has vowed to clear his name despite being banned for seven years for spot-fixing.



The 28-year-old paceman was given the ban - with two of the years suspended - following an ICC anti-corruption hearing into events relating to last year\'s Lord\'s Test against England.



But Asif told Pakpassion.net that he is determined to return to international cricket after clearing his name.



\"I\'m bitterly disappointed with the verdict that was announced in Doha. I am determined to totally clear my name and to get back to what I love doing and that is playing cricket for my country,\" said Asif.



Asif admitted he is suffering, having to watch his team take part in the World Cup from afar. \"It\'s tough watching the boys on television and not being part of the team\", he added.



\"I find it really painful to watch and it really hurts that I\'m not there at the World Cup with my team-mates, playing for Pakistan. It\'s every cricketer\'s dream to take part in tournaments such as the World Cup and I am no different.



\"It would have been an absolute honour to wear the green of Pakistan and help the boys bring the trophy home.\"



Asif refused to elaborate on the corruption charges. \"When the time is right, I will be prepared to speak to anybody regarding the spot-fixing accusations. I have nothing to hide regarding the matter and I would welcome the opportunity to talk about the accusations in full detail.\"



Asif - and fellow former players Salman Butt and Mohammad Amir, who were also banned at the same hearing - have until February 26 to launch an appeal.


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