Time waits for Asif

An impressive new-ball bowler who debuted for Pakistan against England in December 2005, Asif has been nominated for the award along with three Englishmen: Alistair Cook, Ian Bell and Monty Panesar.

ICC chief executive Malcolm Speed indicated that Asif was still eligible for the award, as his “A” sample taken in a PCB internal test which tested positive for the banned steroid nandrelone had been taken outside the period for which the award applies.

The ICC Awards Ceremony will take place in Mumbai on 3 November. The awards are held in recognition of the period between 1 August 2005 and 8 August 2006.