Pakistani’s former opening bowler, Mohammad Asif, has stated that his former captain, Salman Butt, was down and isolated after Asif’s release from the jail. He further stated that the notorious former captain was waiting anxiously for his release.

HMP Canterbury allows is a men’s detaining area allowing two foreign nationals to stay in the same room. Asif stated that he and Salman were both initially inquired whether they would be able to share a room together.

“We immediately agreed. Having a non-Muslim room partner could have made life difficult for both me and Salman,” he added.

Elaborating his stay with Salman, Asif stated, “Salman and I were sharing the same room for three months in the prison and he wished me good luck on the day of my release”.

While talking about his relationship with Salman Butt, Asif stated that they were like brothers and no ill-feelings had developed between them after the conviction.

“There were no ill-feelings between us. In fact, we were like two brothers in the prison,” said Asif. “Both of us were made gym in-charge where we played badminton and football.” said Asif.

Asif stated that he was unable to meet his family members during his jail term. Asif added that his family had financial constraints that did not allow them to meet the fast bowler, although they spoke on the telephone.

While talking about Salman’ s family visits, Asif uttered that Butt’s family visited often and met the former captain, only with the exception of Butt’s younger son.

“Every month in the jail, Salman’s wife (Gul), his elder son and mother paid a visit, but his younger son was denied visa constantly and therefore he could not see him,” he added.

Salman Butt still has 18 months jail term remaining.The younger son, whom Salman has not met yet, was born minutes after the former captain was found guilty of “spot fixing” scam along with Mohammad Asif and Mohammad Amir.

Before Asif, Mohammad Amir was released earlier this year after serving his 6 month jail term.