Pakistan bowler Aamer wants judgment deferred

KARACHI - Suspended Pakistani bowler Mohammad Aamer’s lawyer Shahid Karim is satisfied with the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) hearing on spot-fixing but wants the three-man tribunal to take a careful look at the case before pronouncing the verdict.

The closing statements of the six-day hearing were presented Tuesday morning in Doha and while the verdict is expected later in the day, Karim revealed that he has asked for a deferment.

“We have requested the judges to look at the case carefully and with due consideration before they announce the verdict,” the lawyer told Geo TV in Doha. “This is up to them, and if they have looked at it with thought and consideration, then after we finish they’ll tell us if the verdict is announced today or at a later date.”

“I am satisfied that the hearing has been very good and impartial, and I can say from our point of view at least we are hopeful. The onus is now on the judges,” he stressed.

Aamer, who is accused of bowling deliberate no-balls in a Test match against England at Lord’s last year, said he is expecting a favourable verdict.

“When the nation’s prayers are with you, you don’t feel so scared. It’s been difficult to sleep over the last few nights but my eyes are open now and when good news comes I will hopefully be able to close them properly.”

“We are satisfied with how things have gone, and my family’s prayers are also with me. I’m feeling good and am hoping for some good news.”