Arshad barred by his bank
Reuters, Karachi
Pakistan off-spinner Arshad Khan has been ordered to break off from his role in this month's one-day series against India and return to his job in a bank.Allied Bank said the 34-year-old cannot be given permission to play for Pakistan in the series and must return for normal banking duties within seven days or face disciplinary action. "This decision has been conveyed to you and the request of the Pakistan Cricket Board for your participation in Pakistan team against India could not meet approval of competent authority," wrote Khalid Sohail Azmi, a regional head of the bank, to Arshad in a letter obtained by Reuters. Most players are employed by banks or big departments and are automatically released and treated 'on-duty' if required to play for Pakistan. Arshad was a member of the Pakistan squad for the series against England before Christmas and was in the squad for the India series. He played in the one-day series against England but was not picked for either of the three Tests against India. Arshad has played nine Tests and 56 one-day internationals for Pakistan.
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