His ban expires Sep 22, the same day when the ICC Champions Trophy gets underway in South Africa.

The lanky fast bowler is set to be included in the 30-man preliminary squad for the Champions Trophy which the national selectors are expected to announce July 23.

It was the Pakistan Cricket Board's decision to fine rather than ban Asif for his 19-day detention in Dubai for possession of a small quantity of opium last year that has paved the path for his possible return to international cricket.

Asif, who has taken 51 wickets from 11 Tests, said that he is unlucky to miss last month's ICC World Twenty20 in England but said it was great because Pakistan won the tournament.