Salman Butt eager to prove himself again

Karachi: Former Pakistan Test cricketer Salman Butt has said that his redemption will start on the cricket field, and added that he wants to prove himself again. The tainted player, who is expecting to return to the Pakistan in T20 World Cup, felt excited to return to the game after waiting for so long. According to the Dawn, Thirty-year-old Butt admitted that he needs to perform consistently if he wants to play at the international level. Left-handed batsman Butt had captained Pakistan and led his side to two victories against Australia and England. The disgraced trio of Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Asif and Salman Butt were found guilty of match-fixing in the Lords Test between England and Pakistan in 2010. READ: Salman Butt, Mohammad Asif and Mohammad Aameer to undergo a six-month rehabilitation program

Earlier, the ICC had confirmed that Mohammad Asif and Butt will be eligible to return to competitive cricket, at both the domestic and international level, from September 2, 2015 after fulfilling the specific conditions laid down by the independent Anti-Corruption Tribunal. Mohammad Amir’s ban was relaxed six months ago.

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PCB Chairman Shaharyar Khan said, “We had to consider the effect of an immediate induction of these players into cricket, the acceptability of these players amongst their fellow cricketers, the anticipated negative slogans at the grounds from cricket fans and its effect on the other players and the banned players’ own strength to deal with these pressures.” READ: PCB should contemplate and discuss everything before recalling Mohammad Asif, Mohammad Aameer and Salman Butt: Shahid Afridi

“Having considered all these factors we have come up with an action plan that will ensure a smooth and gradual induction of these players into cricket leading up to a full integration upon completion of rehabilitation and education programme,” he added.

(With inputs from PTI)