The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) paved the way for Mohammad Asif’s comeback to the national team for the Champions Trophy later this year after fining the controversial fast bowler Rs 1 million for his involvement in a drug case in Dubai.

The PCB said it had fined Asif on the recommendations of a three-member probe committee that found him guilty of bringing the country and Pakistan cricket into disrepute last year when he was detained in Dubai for possession of hashish.

Asif’s ban had started from September last year and Altaf said he didn’t see any reason for Asif not to be considered for the Champions Trophy. “On technical grounds, his ban ends on September 22 after which he is a free man. So we will definitely want him in the playing squad,” he added.

Asif was relieved to know that his name was being considered for selection in the Champions Trophy squad. “I am delighted I will be considered for selection again but as far as the fine is concerned I will consult my lawyer about it. But the most important thing for me is to resume my career in September,” Asif said.