Pakistan`s Amir won`t play in World Cup even if ban reduced

Karachi: Banned Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir will not be eligible for next year`s World Cup even if he returns early to domestic cricket, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said on Friday.

PCB Chairman Najam Sethi told a news conference in Lahore that under the amended anti-corruption laws of the International Cricket Council (ICC) Aamir`s five-year ban could be reduced by 12 months. Aamir, 21, was banned for a minimum five years in 2011 for spot-fixing during Pakistan`s fourth test against England at Lord`s in 2010. His captain Salman Butt and fellow fast bowler Mohammad Asif were also banned for the same offence and the three players served jail terms in Britain in 2011-12. Sethi said Pakistan had pushed for a reduction in Aamir`s suspension because of his age. "The message we got from the ICC committee at this week`s meeting in Dubai was that Amir could get a one-year relaxation under the amended anti-corruption laws," he added. The amended ICC anti-corruption code should ensure quicker returns to international cricket for players serving long-term bans. PCB chief operating officer Subhan Ahmed said that although Amir could play first-class cricket he will not be eligible for next year`s World Cup. "They are no indications even if the ICC reduces the ban it will allow him back to international cricket before the five- year ban period ends," Ahmad told Reuters.