The New Nation - Internet Edition

BBC Online

Pakistani fast bowler Mohammad Asif has tested positive for a banned substance during an Indian Premier League (IPL) game, tournament organisers have said.

Only last month Asif, 25, was detained at Dubai airport on suspicion of carrying illegal drugs.

He was held in Dubai for two weeks before returning to Pakistan after a decision was made not to press charges.

"I am shocked and surprised because I was extra cautious and never used any banned substances," said Asif.

In a statement the league said: "The Indian Premier League confirms the player in violation is Mohammad Asif.

"It was also checked if Mr Mohammad Asif had applied for and was granted a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE). It was found that Mr Mohammad Asif had not applied for a TUE.

"A note in writing has been sent to the player and his home board and to the franchisee on the findings."

Asif now has the option of asking for his 'B' sample to be tested and, should he do so, his case would be referred to the IPL's drugs tribunal, a three-man group including former India captain Sunil Gavaskar.

If the positive result is upheld, Asif could face a ban from future IPL seasons as well as possible sanctions from the Pakistan board.

Asif played for the Delhi Daredevils during the lucrative Twenty20 tournament which began in April and ended in June.

The news that Asif has tested positive for a banned substance is the latest in a series of controversial incidents that the player has been involved in.

In 2006, both Asif and fellow Pakistani fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar were found to have taken the banned steroid Nandrolone after failing internal Pakistani Cricket Board drug tests.

The pair were banned for one and two years respectively, before the ruling was overturned on appeal.

In 2007 Asif was involved in a dressing-room altercation, during which he was struck with a bat by Shoaib, who was later sent home from the World Twenty20 tournament.

And 2008 has seen him involved in two separate drug offences.

The 25-year-old said he would speak to the PCB before taking any further steps.