Akhtar's five-year ban to be reduced: sources

"What is going to happen is that when the appellate tribunal resumes hearing on June 4, Shoaib will appear before it again and make another apology which would be repeated in front of the media which would then lead to the dropping of the long term ban on him and award softer penalties," the source said.

The source said that Justice (retd) Aftab Farrukh, who heads the appellate tribunal, was uncomfortable with the way the Akhtar ban issue was being politicized and direction it was heading.

"Shoaib has managed to get time with leading figures in both the PPP and Muslim League Nawaz group. The fact that Rehman Malik, the advisor to the Prime Minister and an influential figure, presided over a meeting between Shoaib and PCB Chairman Nasim Ashraf and break the ice between them shows how political figures are playing a role in Shoaib's issue," the source stated.

Meanwhile, media reports here say that Kolkata Knight Riders owner Shah Rukh Khan, a big name in Pakistan, has played a leading role behind the scenes to get Akhtar's ban suspended for a month to allow the fast bowler play in the IPL.

Express newspaper today carried a story that Khan, his wife Gauri and actress Juhi Chawla told Akhtar to repent, change his ways and do not get into trouble again.

More Headlines from News

• Three new players in Bangladesh ODI team

• Dravid's mother creates a masterpiece

• Why Sachin should overtake Lara in 1st Test

• Expect a calmer series, but not short of fireworks

• Aussie players arrive amid tight security