Sharjeel Khan offers "unconditional apology" as he begins reintegration process into competitive cricket

Sharjeel has been serving a two-and-a-half-year ban – the other half of the ban was suspended – for his part in a spot-fixing scandal that took place during the Pakistan Super League (PSL)

Former Pakistan batsman Sharjeel Khan has agreed to a plan with the Pakistan Cricket Board that will see the 30-year-old reintegrated into competitive cricket.

Sharjeel has been serving a two-and-a-half-year ban from the sport – the other half of the ban was suspended – for his part in a spot-fixing scandal that took place during the second edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

In a statement released alongside the PCB, Sharjeel apologised for his part in the scandal. It has been agreed that Sharjeel will complete a rehabilitation programme, designed by the PCB’s security and anti-corruption department, before the end of the year, and will then reintegrate into top-level cricket.

Sharjeel said: “I offer my unconditional apology to the Pakistan Cricket Board, my team-mates, fans and family for the irresponsible conduct that brought embarrassment to everyone. I request for forgiveness and assure I will show more responsibility in my future actions.

^{Sharjeel Khan has played 25 ODIs for Pakistan}

“I remind all cricketers to strictly and religiously follow the PCB Anti-Corruption Code as breaching it will only earn momentary gains, but the consequences will be severe and last for rest of the career.

“I have agreed on the future course of action with the PCB, including helping it in its education sessions on anti-corruption.

“I will soon return to club cricket but will not rush into domestic cricket as I have been away for nearly 30 months and need time to reclaim my fitness and form.”

The director of PCB security and anti-corruption, Lt Col Asif Mahmood, added: “We met Sharjeel today in which he showed remorse and regret for his actions. The PCB never takes pride in penalising its players, but it has a non-negotiable and zero-tolerance approach to matters relating to corruption.

“I hope this serves as a reminder to all those who think they can get away with violating rules as the PCB is vigilant and committed to eliminate the menace of corruption from the game.”

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