Asif finally confesses to spot-fixing

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Former Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Asif has publicly confessed to corruption, almost three years since he was handed a lengthy ban for his part in spot-fixing during 2010's Test against England at Lord's.

Former Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Asif has publicly confessed to corruption, almost three years since he was handed a lengthy ban for his part in spot-fixing during 2010's Test against England.

Asif issued an unconditional apology at the Karachi Press Club on Wednesday, and hoped to revive his international career. The 30-year-old would spend 24 months of the seven-year ban under suspension, on condition he commits no further breach of the International Cricket Council's code of conduct – and participates in an anti-corruption education programme.

"I accept the punishment from the ICC tribunal in 2011. I apologise for my actions that have brought disrespect to my beloved country, to the millions of fans in Pakistan and in the world. When I look back at the events of my career, I feel very sorry," said Asif.

"I request all the players who want to represent their country that they must keep away from all sorts of corruption. I am ready to help any player who wants to avoid such pitfalls. I will duly cooperate with the ICC, its anti-corruption and security unit with the Pakistan Cricket Board, in fighting corruption in the game."

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Asif, alongside fellow seamer Mohammad Amir and ex-captain Salman Butt, were banned for deliberately bowling no-balls during the fourth Test at Lord's in August 2010. This week's apology is not expected to have any immediate implications, until Asif undergoes rehabilitation and presents the entire truth to the ACSU and PCB.

"I also want to make myself available for the rehab program to be conducted by the PCB through the support of the ICC. I have suffered a lot because of my wrongdoings. Now on the Independence Day of my country, I promise that once my ban finishes I will try to repair the damage I have done," he added.

"My family has also suffered so I want to start a new life with a hope that all the fans of the game accept me. I also request the ICC to allow me to play first-class cricket so that when my ban ends I am fit enough to represent my country."

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