ACSU might open new investigation in spot-fixing: PCB chief

Lahore: The Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Zaka Ashraf has given the first indication that the Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) of the ICC might soon open a new investigation into the spot-fixing scandal and also confirmed last Monday that the board wanted to be part of the investigations.

Ashraf told reporters in Lahore that the PCB had written a letter to the ICC voicing its support for all anti-corruption measures of the sport`s world governing body and also making it clear that in any future ICC investigation, PCB should be made involved in it. Media reports have talked about the ICC considering opening a new investigation into the spot-fixing scandal following the submission of new evidence and transcripts at the criminal trial of Salman Butt, Mohammed Asif and Mohammad Aamer in the London crown court. The court gave the three disgraced players different jail terms for accepting corrupt payments and trying to cheat. Ashraf`s admission of the letter being sent to the ICC indicates that a new ICC investigation by the ACSU might begin soon. "The spot-fixing scandal has badly damaged the image of Pakistan cricket and we want to let everyone know that support all anti-corruption measures of the ICC and want to be part of the fight against corruption," Ashraf said. He said the three players had not only destroyed their own careers with their acts but also brought lot of misery and grief for their families. "Pakistan cricket lost three very talented players but more than that these players with their actions have caused lot of pain to their families and I feel sorry for them," the PCB chief said. Ashraf and COO Subhan Ahmad are due to leave on Friday for Dubai where they are scheduled to meet with ICC officials and discuss the repercussions of the spot-fixing case. The PCB president also made it clear that he was firm about not allowing players power in the national team and insisted the comeback of former captain, Shahid Afridi to the national team for the ODI series against Sri Lanka was a different thing. "Afridi was picked in the team because of his individual talent and after consultations with the national selectors but I am not going to allow players` power culture in the team at all," he said. The PCB chief maintained that despite the many issues facing Pakistan cricket he was keen to get foreign teams to start touring Pakistan again. He said it was imperative for Pakistan to start hosting international cricket teams for a secure future. PTI