Twenty 20 skipper insists players are focused on Cardiff clash
Pakistan's Twenty20 captain Shahid Afridi has offered an apology for the controversy surrounding the spot-fixing allegations, but insists his side are focused on the game against England in Cardiff on Sunday.
Test captain Salman Butt and bowlers Mohammad Asif and Mohammad Amir have been charged with "various offences" under Article 2 of the ICC's anti-corruption code relating to alleged irregular behaviour during and in relation to the fourth Test between England and Pakistan.
And Afridi, who revealed he has not been in touch with the three players in question, said in front of the Sky Sports News cameras: "It's very bad news. On behalf of the players I want to say sorry to cricket lovers in all the cricketing nations."
He added: "It's a big challenge for me as captain but we're all ready. The coach and I are not talking about the issue - we are here to play cricket.
"I've told the boys 'don't read the newspapers'. I know they are very upset."
Asked if he had spoken to the players about being cautious who they mix with, Afridi said: "Not really."
However, when asked if he believed the Twenty20 and NatWest one-day series of matches will go ahead, he added: "Definitely."
