Mumbai: Former Pakistan skipper Salman Butt – who is serving a 10-year-ban – turned 30 on Tuesday and is hopeful of a comeback.
Speaking exclusively to this reporter over telephone, he said: “I am waiting for my ban period to get over on September 1 in 2015 and then I hope to play domestic cricket and cement my place in the international team once again.”
In his ban, five years is a suspended sentence, the longest compared to his colleagues Mohammad Amir and Mohammad Asif, who are also forbidden for spot-fixing activities.
“I will not breach the ICC Code of Conduct during the remaining five years for I am aware of the consequences. I have learnt a lesson and seen the ups and downs. I have apologised to my country and the world,” said Butt.
“Cricket is my bread and butter and the passion is still there. I have been privately practicing hard and keeping myself fit,” he added.
“During this difficult time, I have received support from my family members and fans. I am not as popular as Sachin Tendulkar or Wasim Akram but people still ask for my autographs,” said Butt.
