Asif was carrying opium in Dubai, finds inquiry panel

Islamabad: A Pakistan Cricket Board official has confirmed that Mohammad Asif was in possession of opium when he was detained in Dubai earlier this year and has recommended the fast bowler be banned and fined.

"It was proved during our investigation that Asif was caught with a small amount of opium at the Dubai airport," said Shafqat Naghmi, the PCB's former chief operating officer and member of its inquiry committee.

In June, on his way home from playing in the Indian Premier League Twenty20 tournament, Asif was detained for 19 days in Dubai after authorities allegedly found a substance containing opium in his wallet at the airport.

The 25-year-old national team player was accused of carrying 0.01 ounces (0.25 grams) of opium, but he tested negative for drugs and was released without being charged.

But he was questioned by Dubai authorities for drug possession and smuggling while he remained in custody at the airport's detention centre.

"He was actually deported from Dubai as the amount of opium was not enough to lay down charges," Naghmi said.

"I can't reveal exactly what we have recommended, but I can say that Asif breached a number of rules and regulations for which we suggested a ban of several international matches and also financial penalty."