Pak pacer Asif wants to make up for lost time

Lahore, Nov. 23 (ANI): Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Asif is looking at the brighter side of his absence from international cricket for two years, saying that he got time to recover from a crucial elbow injury which could have doomed his cricketing career prematurely.

"In fact it was a blessing for me as I was suffering from elbow injury at that time. Had I not rested that long maybe my career would have been over by now. But I have recovered from the problem," The Nation quoted Asif, as saying.

The 26-year-old pacer's career plummeted after he failed a dope test during the Indian Premier League's (IPL) inaugural season.

Asif, who is part of Pakistan's squad for the three-match Test series against New Zealand, reckons that he is fully prepared to make up for the lost time.

"Wickets in New Zealand will definitely suit my bowling style and now I am fully geared up to play a leading role in the Test series. Before coming to New Zealand I have played five first class matches and my rhythm has returned," he said.

Asif was not selected for the ODI series against New Zealand held in UAE earlier this month following his deportation last year. He was arrested on Dubai Airport over the drug possession charges in June 2008.

Recalling those days, Asif said he felt so dejected that he decided to quit cricket at one stage but "only with my family and friends support I stayed in the game. "

"I have learnt my lessons and will not repeat the mistakes that I has done. People say that I follow Sohaib Akhter but that is not the case. I live a normal life and still scandals are made," Asif said. (ANI)