Asif Suspended, Akhtar in Champions Trophy squad

Taking a tough stand, Pakistan Cricket Board on Tuesday suspended beleaguered pacer Mohammad Asif from all cricket activities for an indefinite period following his positive dope test in the inaugural Indian Premier League.

Asif, who was also left out of the 30-member list of probables for the Champions Trophy, will not be allowed to take part or associate himself with any activity related with PCB, ICC or ICC members until a final decision on his dope result is reached.

"PCB hereby suspends Mohammad Asif with immediate effect from participating in cricket including its organisation, administration and promotion conducted by or under the auspices of PCB, ICC or ICC members until final decision which includes appeal," PCB Chief Operating Officer Shafqat Naghmi said.

PCB Chief Operating Officer Shafqat Naghmi said the Board would implement the findings of the IPL Drugs Tribunal on the issue.

"We have suspended Asif though he will have the right to appeal under ICC Anti-doping regulations," Naghmi said.

"PCB will offer all the assistance to IPL Drugs Tribunal and implement its findings and can even attend the enquiry proceedings," he said in the presence of Board lawyer Tafazzul Rizvi.

Mohd Asif was also dropped from the Champions Trophy squad.

Controversial fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar on Tuesday was included in Pakistan's provisional 30-member squad for the Champions Trophy.

Akhtar, who has also been in the news of late, was allowed by a Pakistani court to play again after suspending the 18-month ban imposed on him by the PCB for indiscipline.

"We want to give Shoaib a legitimate chance to prove his fitness and win back his place in the team," Naghmi said.

Naghmi also disclosed that all the selected players would undergo dope tests in Lahore on the July 19 and 20 of this month.

"Any player who fails the test or avoid giving a sample would not be considered for the final Champions Trophy squad and will also face disciplinary action under our anti-doping regulations," Naghmi said.