Well, well. Mohammad Asif and Shoaib Akhtar have both been acquitted. Is this some kind of joke? What kind of politics or management is this? I just don't get it. Are there bribes or is there corruption involved? Maybe it is that Pakistan couldn't do without them for the World Cup. Maybe the commercial aspect of game also requires them. Was the ICC also involved?

They may be able to play whenever they want. But I have decided that we need to take a non-traditional approach this time. Whatever attention the doping incident has been attracting from around the world, let's reflect on the positives this decision brings to the game.

But first a little on Shoaib. I may be a little biased against the paceman as I don't think we need such a role model anywhere in the spotlight, not only cricket. Hence I wasn't happy when he was released as well. He may be quick, his bowling average may be unbelievable, he may be one of the most feared bowlers in the world, and he may even bring in the crowds. But there is something beyond all this - the game of cricket. This is a gentleman's game and Shoaib is not a gentleman. He is an indisciplined spoiled brat, to say the least, and he is given the responsibility to lead an attack. Not punishing Shoaib will have a negative impact on the team and the young bowlers who were looking forward to a future place in the team.

The positives start with Asif. I was for a ban as that would have ended Shoaib's career and disciplined Asif for at least 10 years. Although the ban has been rescinded, Asif should have learned his lesson and stay away from Shoaib as much as possible and maybe seek guidance from the bowling coach Waqar Younis.

The team should now be better balanced. They can attack with their bowlers rather than relying too much on the batting. I am actually excited enough to name a squad for the World Cup although that may be a bit early with five ODIs against the West Indies and the South Africa tour to come.

The fans need to have a similiar attitude. There is no point in criticising the board or the players for the decision. They need to back the team remembering that Pakistan are one of the best in the world and now one of the favourites for the World Cup.