Asif Wait Continues

Pakistan paceman Mohammad Asif remained in detention in Dubai today with a decision on his case still pending.

The fast bowler has been in Dubai on suspicion of carrying drugs since last Sunday after United Arab Emirates customs officials found a small quantity of powder in his wallet.

Asif was interrogated on Thursday and the prosecutor made out a report to the attorney general after he completed hearing testimonies of witnesses yesterday.

The case now rests with the attorney general.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) human resources director Nadeem Akram told reporters: "The position is that the attorney general has yet to decide on the report of the prosecutor and until that is done Asif will remain in detention."

Akram was rushed to Dubai to oversee the case.

Dubai-based daily Khaleej Times reported Akram as saying lawyers handling the case had requested a meeting with the attorney general, but no time had yet been fixed for the meeting.

Meanwhile, PCB chairman Nasim Ashraf told reporters today Asif could face action from the Board once he returns home.

"It is too early to say anything but yes our anti-doping regulations are now compliant with the World Anti-Doping Agency. We would have to follow regulations in this case too," Ashraf said.

"We are hopeful he will be released and allowed to return home quickly.

"But since this is an incident involving drugs, no matter how small the quantity, he could be suspended from playing cricket until an inquiry into the matter is conducted."