Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) decision to include Mohammad Asif for the Champions Trophy has drawn the criticism from several former national players.

Many former Pakistan players believe that the controversial pacer won't be able to adapt into the high-profile game, following his return to the national side after 18 months.

Former Pakistani pacer Sarfraz Nawaz believes that the selectors took a wrong decision to name the comeback for the important Champions Trophy since he hasn't played much cricket for a long span.

Commenting over Asif's inclusion in the team, Nawaz said: "He (Asif) has not been allowed by ICC to attend the Pakistan's cricket team's conditioning camp ahead of Champions Trophy as his ban ends on 22nd September. I ask what was the reason they took the decision to indulge Asif for such an important event."

Apart from Nawaz, former chief selector Abdul Qadir has also questioned the selection of dope-tainted pacer Mohammad Asif in the Champions Trophy squad. Speaking with the media persons, Qadir said: "I don't understand what was the hurry of picking Asif when he has not played for over a year. The pace department is already strong with Umar Gul, Mohammad Aamir, Rao Iftikhar and Rana Naved bowling well."

However, Pakistan coach Intikhab Alam feels the other way. Alam said that Asif's inclusion in the Champions Trophy squad will add experience to the bowling attack.

Notably, Asif at present is serving a ban imposed on him by the PCB last September after testing positive for the banned substance nandrolone.