June 21, 2008	Saturday	Jamadi-us-Sani 16, 1429

KARACHI, June 20: Pakistan captain Shoaib Malik said on Friday that the matter of fast bowler Mohammad Asif’s selection for the forthcoming Asia Cup was in the hands of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the selectors, saying it was not appropriate for him to comment on it.

“The PCB and the selectors have to decide Asif’s fate. But like in the past our good wishes are with him,” he told reporters after the team’s first training session here at the NSK on Friday.

Asif was detained by authorities at Dubai airport for 19 days for carrying a contraband drug but his ordeal finally ended when he was released late Thursday.

Meanwhile, Malik added that Pakistan were aiming to win the Asia Cup for the second time after their solitary triumph back in 2000. “The team is motivated and in good spirits after the tri-series win in Bangladesh,” he said. “We are aiming to keep that momentum going.”

To a question regarding the axing of wicketkeeper-batsman Kamran Akmal from the Asia Cup, Malik said he (Akmal) is a talented player and could make a comeback pretty soon. “Shane Warne also praised him (Akmal) and used him as an opener in the IPL. Kamran’s inclusion does give you options,” he said. He, however, added that the Pakistan probables for Asia Cup were picked in consultation with him and the coach.—APP