Cricket: Khan is against fixing bans

Published on Wednesday 1 September 2010 14:45

Former Pakistan captain Imran Khan does not believe any player involved in 'spot-fixing' should receive a life ban.

Captain Salman Butt and seam bowlers Mohammad Asif and Mohammad Aamer will attend a Pakistan Cricket Board inquiry at the Pakistan High Commission in London, after newspaper reports alleged they were involved in a plot to bowl no-balls to order in the Lord's Test against England last week.

Khan, who earlier called for harsh punishment on players who are found guilty, said: "I think the ICC is going to take its own decision. But in my opinion the message should go that the crime does not pay.

"For spot-fixing, bowling a no-ball, they should suffer heavy on their pocket and be imposed a heavy fine rather than a life ban. It really should set an example and fine should be huge."

Several big names in the game of cricket, including former International Cricket Council chief executive Malcolm Speed, have suggested banning Pakistan.

But Khan does not think the entire nation should have to suffer if the players are found guilty.

"It's a crime and the criminal should be punished but the game of cricket must go on," the former all-rounder said.