Cricket: Akhtar recalled after failing drug test

Pakistan are recalling fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar and Mohammad Asif from the Champions Trophy in India after positive drugs tests, the Pakistan Cricket Board said today.

Update 1556 hrs- Shoaib, Asif could miss World Cup

Pakistan fast bowlers Shoaib Akhtar and Mohammad Asif have been suspended and could miss out on the World Cup next year following their positive dope tests for nandrolone.

"Shoaib and Asif have tested positive after routine tests were carried out before the team's departure for India," Saleem Altaf, director (cricket operations) of PCB said.

"As soon as we got the reports we decided to ask for another tests on their urine samples.In the meantime they have been suspended and will return home immediately," he said.

The bowlers were suspended immediately after the preliminary results conducted on their urine samples showed traces of nandrolone, an anabolic steroid. As per anti-doping rules, tests would be conducted on their 'B' samples for reconfirmation.

If their 'B' samples also test positive, the ICC rules provide for a ban up to two years from the sport. The World Cup is to be played in the West Indies in March-April 2007.