Imran Nazir Escaped an ICC Ban Just Hours Before Champions Trophy After Positive Doping Test

Pakistan opener Imran Nazir almost missed the chance of playing in the Champions Trophy after using a banned substance for treating a congenital breathing problem, but was cleared to play just in time. According to a media report, the batsman obtained the No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the International Cricket Council (ICC) hours before the start of Pakistan’s opening match against West Indies. The report said that Imran had to be given emergency medical treatment earlier this week for a congentinal breathing disease. It was found that the drug was on the list of ICC’s banned substances.

“The drug that Imran used was banned. When the matter was brought to the notice of the ICC, they initially refused to accept Pakistan’s plea. However, when they were told that he was taking the medicine after informing the ICC medical panel, they convened a conference and decided to allow Imran to play in the opening match after getting clearance from their doctors,” the report added. The report also said that Imran had to take the drug after his condition worsened on Tuesday.