The International Cricket Council (ICC) has suspended Afghanistan wicketkeeper Mohammad Shahzad for one year after he found guilty in the dope test. He has not played any international match for his national side since January 2017.

“The wicketkeeper-batsman had inadvertently ingested the prohibited substance, as a contaminant of a weight loss product he was taking, Hydroxycut. Mr Shahzad had provided a urine sample as part of the ICC’s out-of-competition testing programme in Dubai, UAE, on 17 January 2017,” said ICC in a statement.

Shahzad was found guilty of breaching article 2.1 of ICC’s Anti-Doping Code as his samples contained clenbuterol, which is among the non-Specified Substance by WADA.

ICC stated “Mr Shahzad admitted the violation and a twelve-month suspension has been imposed, backdated to 17 January 2017, the date of his sample collection. Mr Shahzad will, therefore, be eligible to return to cricket on 17 January 2018.”

The opening batsman opted for a clarification aftermath and stated he was taking some substance for a weight loss. “Mr Shahzad was able to satisfy the ICC through evidence and submissions prepared on his behalf that he had no intention to enhance his sporting performance through the use of prohibited substances…,” ICC further added.

Geoff Allardice, ICC General Manager (Cricket), admitted there is zero tolerance for breaching the doping code of conducts. “It further serves as a reminder to all international cricketers of the dangers and risks associated with taking supplements. Before thinking about taking a supplement, cricketers should weigh up the risks and dangers of doing so and should fully research the supplement in question so they can make an informed decision,” said Allardice.

Thus, he can play international cricket after serving a year ban, which will finish on 17 January 2018.