Pakistan Cricket Board statement

In accordance with PCB's Anti Doping Policy, the Pakistan Cricket Board had arranged to test 19 players prior to the Champions Trophy 2006 from WADA accredited laboratory in Malaysia. Two of our players namely Shoaib Akhtar and Mohammad Asif have tested positive for Nandrolone which is a banned anabolic steroid, as per the preliminary tests. The PCB has asked for reconfirmation of the tests from Malaysian laboratory and the results are expected by tomorrow.

PCB has decided to withdraw the two players from the ICC Champions Trophy 2006 immediately. The players will return back home on the first available flight. ICC has been informed of this decision and discussions are underway with ICC regarding their replacement.