London, June 11 2009: Pacer Abdul Razzaq became the first ex-ICL player to return to national fold after the ICC approved his name as replacement for injured Yasir Arafat in the Pakistan squad for the ongoing Twenty20 World Cup.

The International Cricket Council said in a statement that Razzaq had been deemed eligible to take part in the tournament after he terminated his contract with the ICL and received adequate punishment from the PCB.

“The PCB has advised the ICC that it has imposed a sanction on Abdul Razzaq in accordance with the ICC Board resolution,” ICC Chief Executive Haroon Lorgat said.

The event technical committee of T20 World Cup approved Razzaq as Arafat’s replacement and the confirmation was conveyed to Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the statement said.

Arafat suffered a hamstring injury during the group stage of the Twenty20 World Cup and was advised 12 days rest.

An overwhelmed Razzaq said it would be a great feeling to don the national colours after a long time.

“It’s a great feeling to know that I am going to return to action in the Pakistan team. I would be playing for Pakistan after nearly two years.”

“I have missed playing for my national team all this time,” said the all-rounder who is expected to figure in Pakistan’s first Super Eight match against Sri Lanka tomorrow.

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