KARACHI - Tainted Pakistani fast bowler Mohammed Asif is aiming to utilise the three match Test series against New Zealand to announce his come back on the international cricketing scene.

Asif, who was banned from international cricket for a year on doping charges, said the break proved to be a blessing in disguise as it helped him overcome his niggling injuries.

“I’m sad for having lost almost two years of my career because in modern day cricket, fast bowlers do not normally have long careers. But, I must also say that the break came as a blessing in disguise for me as it has helped me to overcome my fitness problems,” The News quoted Asif, as saying.

Asif, 26, who last played a Test match nearly two years ago, said he is fully fit and eagerly waiting for series against the Kiwis.

The right-handed fast bowler said he is aiming to be Pakistan’s pace spearhead once again.

“The pitches in New Zealand will definitely suit my bowling and now I am geared up to play a lead role in the Test series like the way I did in 2006 against India, Sri Lanka, England and South Africa,” Asif said.

Asif , who has taken 51 wickets in 11 Tests, said it was difficult to cope with the series of incidents that followed after he was detained at the Dubai airport for carrying an illegal substance.

He said the drug scandal had disappointed him so much that he even thought of retiring from cricket.

“It was a very difficult time of my life because at one stage I was so dejected that I almost decided to quit cricket. But, I received great support from my family and friends and that helped me make a comeback,” Asif said. (ANI)