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Asim Butt tests positive for Ecstasy

The Scottish seam bowler, Asim Butt, has tested positive for the recreational drug, Ecstasy

Cricinfo staff
09-Jun-2005


Asim Butt: caught out © Getty Images
The Scottish seam bowler, Asim Butt, has been banned from all forms of cricket for a year, after testing positive for the recreational drug, Ecstasy.
Butt, 37, appeared before an England & Wales Cricket Board disciplinary panel on Wednesday, having been caught out during Scotland's totesport League match against Somerset on May 11. He will now miss the ICC Trophy in Ireland next month, a competition that could enable Scotland to qualify for the 2007 World Cup.
"Asim has let himself down along with his family, his team-mates and Scottish cricket as a whole," said Roddy Smith, the chief executive of Cricket Scotland, as Butt became the third cricketer in nine months to fail a drugs test. The Warwickshire pair of Graeme Wagg (cocaine) and Keith Piper (cannabis) were both sacked by their counties for their offences.
"He accepts he made a grave error of judgment," added Smith. "Asim has undoubtedly been one of the best seam bowlers in the Scottish game in recent seasons and has represented his adopted country with pride and skill. He has led the way for many Scottish Asians to follow his lead and play for their country. Up to this point, Asim's disciplinary and conduct record has been exemplary.
"All Scotland players are fully aware of the ECB's drugs policy and know the consequences if they take a banned substance. Cricket Scotland fully supports the ECB's anti-doping regulations and will do everything in its power to support and ensure drug-free sport."