Tainted Asif suspended by Pakistan Cricket Board

Lahore, Jul 15 (UNI) Dope tainted fast bowler Mohammed Asif was today suspended by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) after he was found guilty of using banned substances during the inaugural Indian Premier League (IPL).

''PCB has a zero tolerance towards doping and condemns any such practice in all forms and manifestations,'' a Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) statement said. ''PCB is WADA compliant and has a comprehensive Anti Doping Policy which extends to all cricketers.'' ''PCB hereby suspends Mohammad Asif with immediate effect from participating in cricket including its organization, administration and promotion conducted by or under the auspices of PCB, ICC or ICC members until final decision which includes appeal,'' the statement added.

Asif's 'A' sample - taken after the IPL semi-final between the Delhi Daredevils and Rajasthan Royals - the was found to be positive by the World Anti Doping Agency (WADA).

The 25-year-old has denied using banned substances and has asked for a test of his 'B' sample.

If the 'B' sample is also found to be positive, then according to WADA regulations, Asif will face a life ban since this is the second time that he has been found guilty of doping.

He was banned in 2006 for one year after testing positive for a banned steroid- a decision which was later overturned.

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