Dravid backs Mohd Aamir to make comeback

Disgraced Pakistan pacer Mohammad Aamir has got some much-needed support from Indian batting great Rahul Dravid, who feels it would be "great" if the youngster manages to make a comeback after serving a five-year ban for spot-fixing.

The 19-year-old was recently released from prison after completing half of a six-month sentence for his involvement in the 2010 spot-fixing scandal that shook international cricket.

"He's a superb player and when he's served his ban, I'd hope he'd be able to come back. It's not easy to stay away from the game for so long, to not play it, and be able to come back," Dravid told BBC Sport.

Aamir, who at 18 became the youngest bowler to take 50 Test wickets before being shamed by the scandal, claimed he was "manipulated" by his then skipper Salman Butt, who took advantage of their "good friendship".

Dravid said he hoped the teen has learnt his lesson from the ordeal he went through and would come back a better player.

"It's been disappointing as (I am) someone who loves the game, and loves watching young talent come through," said Dravid.

"It was difficult on everybody across the world who saw such a young talent, and unfortunately he made a few mistakes.

We all want him to come back at some stage and I don't know whether that's... it's going to be a challenge. I hope he can do it; it would be great if he can," he added.

Photograph: Philip Brown / Reuters