Karachi, Aug. 21: Pakistan on Friday recalled controversial paceman Mohammad Asif but omitted experienced all-rounder Abdul Razzaq from their 15-man squad for next month’s Champions Trophy.

Pakistan, who were originally to host the tournament before it was moved over security fears, are in Group A of the eight-nation event, to be held in South Africa from September 22 to October 5.

Asif was brought back in following a one-year ban, due to expire on September 22, having proved his fitness to selectors during practice matches earlier this month.

The ban was imposed after the 26-year-old failed a dope test in the inaugural season of the Indian Premier League last year.

Chief selector Iqbal Qasim said Asif was ready to go. "Asif is back after he satisfied with his fitness and this is the best possible team for an event which is regarded as the toughest of all the events as the world’s top eight teams compete in it," Qasim said in Lahore.

Asif hit the headlines for the wrong reasons in 2006 when, along with fellow pacer Shoaib Akhtar, he tested positive for the banned steroid nandrolone. — AFP