Aamir defies ICC ban by playing in English competition

Pakistani pacer Mohammed Aamir could be in further trouble as the ICC has launched an investigation into claims that the bowler had defied the ban imposed on him by the world body by playing in an English Division One competition.

A report in Daily Mail said that Aamir, who was handed a five-year ban by the ICC in February for his involvement in last year's spot-fixing scandal, played for Addington in Surrey Cricket League Division One at the LSE ground in New Malden near London.

The ICC ban on Aamir -- and his Pakistani national teammates Salman Butt and Mohammed Asif -- bars him from participating in the game at any recognised level and his turning up for the English club side could be in breach of ICC terms and conditions on his sanction.

"We are investigating and awaiting the details. If true, it is clearly a breach of the sanction imposed in February.

The ban is absolutely worldwide covering all levels and any activities connected with cricket. What might happen next is a hypothetical question at this stage," ICC spokesman Colin Gibson was quoted as saying by the newspaper.

An ECB spokesman said, "We are aware of this incident and we are investigating as a matter of urgency along with the ICC to see if this game falls under our jurisdiction."

Aamir was central to Addington's 81-run victory in the game, against St Luke's CC. He surprisingly opened the innings and scored 60 before returning bowling figures of four for nine in seven overs, according to the newspaper.

Aamir was handed a five-year ban from the game after being found guilty of bowling no-balls on demand during the Lord's Test against England last summer.

Aamir's team-mates Salman Butt and Mohammad Asif were also handed bans, and all three players are awaiting trial at Southwark Crown Court over allegations of cheating and conspiracy to obtain and accept corrupt payments.