PCB clarify sample confusion

The PCB has clarified the confusion surrounding the sample testing of Mohammad Asif and Shoaib Akhtar who, it was revealed today, were tested positive for the banned anabolic steroid nandrolone.

"Normal procedures for such testing require each player to submit two urine samples, A and B. Sample A is tested initially and the results sent back to the concerned party," Salim Altaf, PCB director of operations, told Cricinfo. "If the player in question protests against the findings, only then is the second sample, B, tested and the results sent back. Until then, sample B remains with the testing laboratory."

The confusion arose this morning when the PCB stated they were waiting for the samples to be re-tested and confirmation of the results sent back. Dr Nasim Ashraf, the new chairman of the PCB, told reporters in Rawalpindi in the afternoon, ambiguously, that results of the second sample had also been completed and confirmed the existence of nandrolone.

As Altaf explained though, "we simply asked for a reconfirmation of sample A's results from the laboratory. Sample B is still with them and will only be called upon if the players protest the findings of the first sample."