Muhammad Asif arrested in Dubai on contraband item

Pakistani fast bowler Mohammad Asif has been arrested at Dubai airport on charges of possessing illegal drugs, cricket officials said Tuesday.

Asif was seized while returning home from India after featuring in Indian Premier League, which ended on Sunday.

"Yes, we can confirm about Asif's arrest. He was stopped at Dubai airport on charges of carrying opium and was supposed to be brought before the magistrate on Tuesday," the official said.

The sources said that Muhammad Asif in police custody had admitted of possessing opium.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chief Operating Officer Shafquat Naghmi would hold a press conference in the afternoon to unveil the details of the incident and PCB strategy for the release of Muhammad Asif.