Saqlain receives reprimand

Saqlain did himself a favour by apologising to Miandad

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Thursday let bowler Saqlain Mushtaq off with a reprimand for verbally abusing coach Javed Miandad.

PCB legal advisor Asghar Haider said a disciplinary committee had decided against a stiffer punishment after Saqlain apologised.

Saqlain scolded Miandad on the phone after being dropped for the recent Test series against South Africa.

"They have not fined or banned him," Haider confirmed.

"The committee reached the decision after Saqlain apologised to Javed Miandad for his behaviour and also to the committee members."

But Haider said PCB chairman Tauqir Zia, who is abroad, could still take further action against spinner Saqlain if he felt the need to do so.

Miandad admitted Saqlain had apologised for his outburst.

He said: "He came to me and apologised for his behaviour which he says was out of sheer frustration."

"I have accepted his apology."

Under the PCB code of conduct, Saqlain could have faced a fine of up to 50,000 rupees (£514) or a ban of three domestic matches if he were found guilty.

Saqlain has been selected for just one Test against Bangladesh and a one-dayer against South Africa this home season.