Disgraced Pakistan fast bowler, Mohammad Asif, has finally broken his silence regarding not getting an opportunity to play cricket again by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
Asif rued the fact that he wasn’t the only player involved in fixing. While the rest involved are either working for the apex cricketing board or still playing the game.
The talented seamer was earmarked to become the next big thing for Pakistan cricket before the infamous spot-fixing case unravelled during the 2010 England tour of Pakistan.
Asif had to serve jail-time along with chief conspirator Salman Butt. The name of Mohammad Amir also came into light due to his huge no-balls.
“Everyone makes mistakes and I did too. Players had been indulging in fixing before me and even after me. But those before me are working with PCB and there are few after me still playing,” Asif told ESPNCricinfo.
“Everyone was given a second chance and there are few who never got the same treatment (as me). PCB never tried to save me regardless of the fact that I am the kind of bowler who was highly regarded by everyone in the world.”
Well, Asif made it clear that he is not being hung up in the past, brooding over it and cherishes memories from his playing days for Pakistan.
Asif took heart from the fact that even the greatest batsmen of his generation namely, Kevin Pietersen, AB de Villiers and Hashim Amla speak highly of him.
Further, Asif remained envious of the fact that Amir was pardoned by PCB and allowed to don the national colours again.
On the contrary, Amir returned the favour to the board by retiring from the longest format of the game.
“I curse the PCB for how they rescued his career. But it was his obligation to help Pakistan cricket in a tough situation, and he should have stayed, especially when they had helped him return.” Asif continued.
Asif concluded by putting himself into Amir’s shoes and helping Pakistan cricket.” If they (the PCB) had done the same with me, then I’d still be available to rescue Pakistan in Test cricket for the next two years. I know there are fitness standards, but I can work that out, and whatever is required I can do it,” Asif signed off.
