Mohammad Akram, who has been banned from cricket for a year by the Pakistan Cricket Board for going absent without leave, has issued a public explanation and apology for the actions that led to the ban. In an open letter, the full text of which is published below, Akram tells of an unforeseen and unspecified emergency that necessitated an immediate flight to the UK without time for prior explanation. Reaffirming his desire to play for Pakistan, Akram makes a direct appeal to the President of the PCB to lift the ban.

The letter reads: "I would like to clarify and put straight the false statements and accusations that have been issued against me.

"Firstly I attended the 10 day training camp in August, for the Asian Championship selection, where I trained very hard and was determined to make my comeback. But before the team could be announced I had to catch the first available flight to the UK, due to genuine emergency that was unforeseen.

"I am not crazy that I would leave the country just before the selection, which was very important for me and for which I worked so hard. Unfortunately I was unable to inform the Pakistan Cricket Board before I left, because I had to leave on the first available flight. But once I arrived in the UK I rang them and explained my situation, and the reason for leaving in such an emergency, and sincerely apologised for not being able to inform them prior to my departure. I also made it very clear that I would not be able to participate in the Asian Championship Test Match against Bangladesh, and therefore asked not to be considered for the selection. This was said two days before the announcement of the team.

"I have been waiting six years for a chance to play for the team on a regular basis. I have suffered immensely, and when finally my opportunity arises to get reward for my patience, hard work and determination I am being accused of not wanting to play. I am not insane that I would miss this golden opportunity that I have so long waited for.

"There are many players in the team in the recent past, I don't want to mention names who have committed much more serious offences and been breaking rules and regulations, yet no such action has been taken against them. Why me? I should also be treated equally, justly and fairly just like the rest.

"I personally feel that the Disciplinary Committee cannot take such serious action against anyone else, and were waiting for someone who does not have much backing to show their authority.

"I am very thankful to General Tauqir Zia, Chairman of the PCB, for realising that cricket is my living and not letting the Disciplinary Committee put a three-year ban on my cricketing career, without any case hearing, and without my presence in the decision.

"Therefore I request General Tauqir Zia, to lift my one-season ban and allow me to play for my bank, division and country.

"Thank you. Mohammad Akram (Pakistan Test Cricketer)."

© CricInfo Ltd.