(Disclaimer: this is a work of fiction. Learn to take a joke; you’ll live longer.)
LAHORE – Despite his recent performances in the National T20 Cup, and Chief Selector Inzamam-ul-Haq hinting in the past that there might be an opening, former captain Salman Butt isn’t any closer to getting a spot in the national side, The Dependent has learnt.
Sources within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirm that Butt, who shared a world record 209-run partnership with Kamran Akmal in the National T20 Cup and top scored against Peshawar, Faisalabad and Lahore Blues, has been told that the political climate isn’t suitable for comebacks of corrupt players.
“There is the argument that if Mohammed Amir can be allowed to return after the ban, why not Salman Butt. And that’s a valid point,” a PCB official said while talking to The Dependent.
“But we must realise that Aamir’s comeback in January 2016 was before Panama Leaks, Dawn Leaks, and other political developments.”
Sources within the national team management confirm that they would have openly welcomed Butt’s comeback had the situation been different.
“In fact our boys Sami Aslam and Shan Masood are doing their best to get Butt back in the Test side,” said a national team official.
“Ahmed Shehzad has done his best for all his peers and seniors. In fact, Champions Trophy hero Fakhar Zaman seems to have started contributing to the cause in recent months.”