Published: Jan 31, 2015, 08:03 PM (IST)
Edited: Jan 31, 2015, 08:37 PM (IST)
Karachi: Pakistan’s banned former captain Salman Butt has said that those players who have been banned for spot fixing, have a right to try and make a comeback to international cricket once they complete their suspension period.
“I know some people, including former players have said Mohammad Aamer shouldn’t be allowed to play cricket again, but I disagree because he has got the clearance from the ICC (International Cricket Council) to play domestic cricket and secondly, he is close to completing his five-year ban,” Butt said.
Besides Butt, two other players — Aamir and Mohammad Asif — were banned for spot fixing during Pakistan’s tour of England in 2010 — and are serving a minimum five-year ban.
The trio also served varying jail terms in England for the same offence before returning home. The ICC, this week announced that Aamir could resume playing domestic cricket under the revised anti-corruption laws, although his ban officially ends on September 2 this year.
“I respect all those people who have different opinions on this issue. But I believe that even if we have made mistakes, we have served our time. Why shouldn’t we be given a chance to make a comeback?” asked Butt.
“Aamer has a right to try to make a comeback to domestic cricket. My case is also pending with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and I am waiting for further instructions,” he added.
