The Hindu : Front Page : Ban on Shoaib suspended

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Monday, May 05, 2008
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Ban on Shoaib suspended

Special Correspondent

Chennai: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Tribunal on Sunday suspended the five-year ban on fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar for a month. The PCB move will enable Akhtar to take part in the on-going Indian Premier League (IPL).

“We have suspended the ban for a month. From June 4, the five-year ban will be effective again,” said Farrukh Aftab, who heads the tribunal, in Islamabad.

The PCB acted on a request from Akhtar’s lawyers who said the IPL was refusing to allow the bowler to take part in its Twenty20 competition while the ban stood. The PCB ban, for several disciplinary breaches, pertained to representing Pakistan and playing cricket at home. However, the IPL insisted on the ban being lifted or suspended.

Akhtar has been signed on by the Kolkata Knight Riders for $ 450,000. He could boost the attack of the side that has lost its last four games.

Lalit Modi, chairman and commissioner, IPL, said “Akhtar’s contract still stands. I am going to call him and tell him to take the first flight to India.”

The PCB is expected to take a final decision on Akhtar’s appeal on June 4.

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