Detained Asif to wait on fate

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Asif was returning to Pakistan from India following the end of the Indian Premier League and he was detained at the airport after a small quantity of a powder was found in his wallet by United Arab Emirates customs officials.

"We are hoping that that this is all a big mistake," said Shafqat Nagmi, chief operating officer of the PCB. "We consider him innocent until proven guilty. We are in touch with him. We hope it is a mistake and just a harmless issue. We have arranged legal counsel for him."

The PCB have hired leading legal firm Angel and Afridi to handle the case.

Nagmi said the PCB were hoping to get Asif back home as soon as possible.

"The reports we have received so far have been good and encouraging," Nagmi said. "Asif is in good spirits and is looking to return home. No charges have been brought against Asif so far.

"The Dubai authorities themselves don't know exactly what he was carrying. We are not clear on that aspect either. It is very difficult to say what can be carried on a plane."

Asif was on Monday picked by Pakistani selectors for the tri-series against Bangladesh and India, due to start in Dhaka on June 8, but Nagmi said Asif's participation would depend on what transpires in Dubai.

"If he returns home quickly, that alone would be an indication that he is innocent," he said.

"Should that happen, there would be no question of disciplinary action being taken against him. But if charges are made against him, then he would be tried under UAE law."