42 Tests, 165 wickets, 133 ODI's, 208 wickets, 31 years old, known as the Rawalpindi Express he holds the title of being the fastest bowler in the history of the game. Shoaib Akhtar has always been engulfed by injuries and controversies since his debut in international arena, from knee plights to ankle wrench, from suspected action to failing random blood tests. It has been a scornful journey for the speedster and most likely to end the same way.
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Pakistan Cricket Board's three member drugs tribunal has found Shoaib Akhtar and fellow fast bowler Mohammad Asif guilty of using anabolic steroid nandrolone, slamming the duo with a two and one year ban respectively. This verdict marks the end (most likely) of an unpleasant three-month phase, beginning with the oval fiasco.
Chairman of the panel Mr. Shahid Hamid said,
'We gave a full chance to both the pacemen to fight their cases and after a thorough inquiry we feel they failed to prove their innocence,"
Shoaib had defended himself saying the high level of nandrolone could be because of the high protein diet (meat, chicken), dietary supplements, and some herbal medicines he was taking...however failing to prove the same. For Mohd Asif language was a barrier and it proved fatal as he was unable to defend himself. Asif is nominated for the ICC emerging player of the year award; he can receive the award (if awarded) because he had been nominated before his trial.
The duo is banned from selection to represent Pakistan in International fixtures, from competing in any events conducted under the jurisdiction of the PCB; and will also receive no aid or funding directly or indirectly from the PCB in the ban period. Shoaib's career has been dealt a serious blow; the two will miss the 2007 World Cup, and the king of speed is most unlikely to find a place in the squad post the two year ban.
The way PCB has dealt with the entire issue is commendable, suspecting, examining and then the verdict well within 15 odd days is worth appreciating. This decision is an example for the other boards and youngsters stepping into the main frame. I think the PCB has been too harsh on Akhtar, considering the penalty Shane Warne got for the similar offence(one year ban); he and Asif have seven days to appeal against the verdict.
Via: cricinfo
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