Asif refuted the claims, saying the substance in his possession was from a hakeem, a traditional Islamic healer.

"I am ashamed of what happened in Dubai and I apologise to the nation," Asif said. "I was not carrying drugs. I was subjected to two random drug tests in the Indian Premier League. Both were negative. Even in Dubai, the tests conducted on me returned negative. There was no trace of dope in my body."

Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Nasim Ashraf said: "Asif told me that no drugs were found on him and that he has never taken drugs. It's good that he is back in Pakistan."

The PCB have appointed a committee to investigate the case. The International Cricket Council have also requested a full report.

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