Threatened Haider hinting at possibility of dramatic u-turn
PAKISTAN wicketkeeper Zulkarnain Haider last night appeared to hint he would be prepared to return to international cricket.
The 24-year-old flew to London from Dubai on Monday and subsequently announced his decision to retire from international cricket, claiming he had received death threats after refusing to fix two matches.
But a return to the international fold now appears to be a possibility after he told Pakistan’s Geo News channel yesterday that he had “no issues” with playing again for Pakistan. He also said he had “no intentions” of seeking political asylum in the UK.
Haider, who is believed to be staying in a hotel near Heathrow, said: “If the Pakistan government is ready to give me assurance of security for me and my family, I am ready to return.
“I had no intention of applying for asylum. I have put my career at stake.”
Pakistan’s ambassador to the UK, Wajid Shamsul Hasan, stated that Haider had not approached its embassy in London for any assistance.
“I don’t know what is his case. If he comes to us we will guide and assist him in every way possible,” Hasan commented.
TIMELINE | ZULKARNAIN HAIDER
5 November Hits the winning runs in Pakistan’s one-wicket win over South Africa in the fourth ODI in Dubai.
8 November Haider is reported to be missing. Rumours suggest he is spotted at Dubai airport heading for England.
8 November Arrives in England with his brother claiming the wicketkeeper had received death threats.
9 November Haider announces his retirement from international cricket before intimating he could be open to a possible return.