Karachi: Pakistan's banned duo of Salman Butt and Mohammad Asif on Wednesday vowed to redeem themselves and serve as anti-corruption role models after ICC confirmed that they are eligible for a return to competitive cricket from September 2 this year.
The sanctions against Asif and Butt will expire at midnight September 1 and that they can make a comeback at both domestic and international levels.
"I am delighted that finally I can return to cricket and I have already assured the Pakistan Cricket Board that I am ready to play my role in educating others about the pitfalls of corruption in cricket," Butt told PTI.
Asif, who has remained out of the limelight compared to Butt and Mohammad Amir, said he was relieved that finally the ban was going to end.
"I am very relieved but what is my future now I have to decide. But obviously I want to redeem myself and serve as an example for others," the right arm pacer said.
The ICC has made it clear that as with all players and other participants in cricket, all three players remain bound to comply with the ICC Anti-Corruption Code and the anti-corruption rules of all National Cricket Federations.
Butt, like Aamir in a written statement given to the PCB admitted his guilt and involvement in the spot-fixing scandal, after which the PCB took up his case with the ICC.
Asif in contrast has yet to come out with a full confession of his guilt and involvement in the scandal that tarnished the image of Pakistan cricket.
Pakistan chief selector, Haroon Rasheed when contacted, said while Aamir was already playing domestic cricket and was being monitored, the selection committee would wait for further instructions from the board on Butt and Asif.
"If they are allowed to play domestic cricket then like everyone else their performances will be monitored," he said.
