Asif clears 'tough' fitness test enhancing chances for Champions Trophy

Lahore, Aug. 21 (ANI): Tainted Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Asif has cleared a 'tough' fitness test enhancing his chances of securing a place in the ICC Champions Trophy squad.

Former wicketkeeper captain Rashid Latif, who is supervising Asif's rehabilitation, confirmed Asif clearing the multi-stage fitness test.

"The Bleep test is the toughest fitness test and Asif secured points which were more than the minimum required by any player to clear it," Latif said.

Asif, 26 had joined the emerging players' camp after chief selector Iqbal Qasim asked him to prove his fitness to earn a place in the 15-man squad for the Champions Trophy.

The final decision regarding the right-arm speedster will be taken after the selectors review reports of the latest fitness test, The Nation reports.

Asif was banned from international cricket for one year after failing in the dope test. His ban expires on September 22, the day Champions Trophy is scheduled to begin in South Africa.

Asif's career had plummeted after he failed a dope test during the Indian Premier League's (IPL) inaugural season. He is hoping to find a place in the Pakistani team after serving a one-year ban imposed by the PCB.

The PCB has already included him in the preliminary list of 30 probables for the Champions Trophy. (ANI)