From correspondents in Delhi, India, 07:31 PM IST

Banned Pakistani fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar contract with the Indian Premier League (IPL) is valid and would be allowed to play if he is cleared by the Pakistan Appeallate Tribunal, said Modi.

'His contract is still valid and has not been cancelled. He is still contracted to the IPL and through it to the Kolkata Knight Riders,' said Modi.

Shoaib has been served a five-year ban by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for criticising it.

As per the rules of the Indian cricket board any player who had been suspended by any other cricket board would not be allowed to play in the IPL, Modi said.

Shoaib is in the Kolkata Knight Riders team owned by actor Shah Rukh Khan and has a three-year-long contract with the team.

(Staff Writer, © IANS)