Mohammad Asif appeals against his conviction, sentence in spot-fixing row

Jailed Pakistan cricketer Mohammad Asif has launched an appeal against his conviction and sentence in last year’s spot-fixing’ scandal after changing his legal defence team.

According to The News, prominent defence Barrister Ravi Sukul of Balham Chambers, South London, has been instructed by Asif to represent him in all matters that relate to the cricketer’s appeal against conviction and sentence.

Meanwhile, Sukul only said that Balham Chambers will be responsible for the preparation and presentation of Asif's appeal against conviction and sentence.

“My professional services would be provided under the Bar Council’s Direct Access rules. That means that there is no requirement for me to be instructed by a solicitor. I am solely responsible for all matters that relate to the appeal,” he added, confirming that an appeal documentation has been filed with the Criminal Appeals Office at the Court of Appeal.

Asif’s appeal hearing will be delayed by a short period because of the change in his legal team.

Asif was handed a 12-month prison sentence whilst ex-captain Salman Butt was jailed for 30 months, and bowler Mohammed Amir received a six-month term for their participation in a plot to bowl deliberate no-balls in a Test match against England.

Butt and Amir had already appealed against their sentences, but not their convictions.