PCB lifts ban on Naved-ul-Hasan

The Pakistan Cricket Board on Saturday lifted the one-year ban imposed on all-rounder Rana Naved ul Hasan, paving the way for his return to the national team.

The board also reduced the fine imposed on him from Rs 20 lakh to 10 lakh.

Hasan was one of the seven Pakistani cricketers banned by the PCB after their disastrous Australian tour early this year.

Except for Hasan, the PCB lifted the bans imposed on all the others.

Hasan had appealed against the ban and appeared before an appellate tribunal.

"I take everything positively and I consider myself very lucky. I will make every effort to return to the Pakistani side," Hasan said.

He met with the PCB chairman Ijaz Butt last month and apologised for his conduct and behaviour on the Australian tour that eventually led to his ban and fine.

The all-rounder, who has not played international cricket in the last six months due to the ban, said he had been playing domestic cricket.

"There is a crisis in the Pakistani team and I will make every effort when the selectors choose players again. I hope they will select me. The board accepted my plea, and I hope to play in a domestic T20 tournament coming up," he said.