The ICC is keeping a close watch on the drug scandal involving Pakistani pacer Mohammad Asif in Dubai and the embattled bowler would be liable to penalties under the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) rules once he is released from detention. ICC's Director of Cricket Operations Dave Richardson told a press conference in Lahore on Wednesday that the governing body has asked the Pakistan Cricket Board to keep it updated on the Asif issue.
"As far as we know he has not been charged as yet. But since the ICC is a signatory of WADA regulations if he is charged then he is liable to penalties under WADA code of
conduct," he added.
Asif has been in detention in Dubai since June 1 for alleged possession of contraband drugs.
Although the Attorney General of Dubai has started proceedings into his case, a official at the Pakistan embassy in Dubai said the AG would meet Asif's lawyers and embassy officials only in another three days' time.
"So far he has not been charged with anything and we are hopeful he will be released soon," the official said.
The official said he met Asif in detention.
Richardson said the ICC had asked the PCB to keep it informed on the Asif case as it was a signatory to WADA rules, now prevalent for every major ICC event like the Champions Trophy.
PCB chairman Nasim Ashraf said the board was doing everything within its power to resolve the Asif case.
"Our lawyers are working on it and the good thing is Asif has still not been charged as yet under any offence. So we are hopeful he will be back home soon," he said.
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