The International Cricket Council has imposed a 15-month [1] anti-doping ban on United Arab Emirates cricketer Asif Khan.
The suspension removes a key player from the UAE national team and highlights the ICC's ongoing efforts to enforce strict anti-doping protocols across international cricket.
Khan, a Pakistan-born player who represents the UAE, tested positive for a metabolite of mesterolone [2]. Mesterolone is an anabolic steroid that is prohibited under the ICC anti-doping code [2].
According to the ICC, the positive sample was collected on Sept. 8, 2025 [3]. The resulting ban is retroactive to the date of the sample collection and is scheduled to run until Dec. 7, 2026 [3].
The decision follows the standard procedure for athletes who fail drug tests during official competitions or random screenings. The 15-month [1] duration of the ban serves as a penalty for the violation of the governing body's medical, and ethical standards.
Khan's absence will leave a gap in the UAE's batting lineup as the team continues its international schedule. The ICC said it has not released further details regarding the specific circumstances of the positive test or any appeals filed by the player.
“The International Cricket Council has imposed a 15-month anti-doping ban on United Arab Emirates cricketer Asif Khan.”
This ban underscores the ICC's commitment to maintaining a drug-free sport, particularly as emerging cricket nations seek to elevate their standing on the global stage. The use of anabolic steroids, which can enhance muscle mass and recovery, is strictly forbidden to ensure fair competition. For the UAE, losing a prominent player for over a year may hinder their competitive momentum in upcoming international fixtures.
