Even if found guilty in the spot-fixing scandal, Pakistan's young fast bowling sensation Mohammad Aamer could get away lightly because age is on his side.

International Cricket Council (ICC) chief Haroon Lorgat hinted that Aamer's age could be a consideration in deciding the quantum of punishment if the spot fixing allegations against the Pakistani trio are proved. Pakistan captain Salman Butt and fast bowler Mohammad Asif are the other two players named in the scandal.

The talk of the showing leniency towards the 18-year-old Aamer has been doing the rounds for sometime. He emerged as a star bowler, picking 19 wickets, in the recently concluded four-match Test series against England.

Lorgat shared the same view and said Aamer's age would be a factor in deciding the quantum of punishment.

'In my own honest personal view, yes, I think age would come into account in these matters,' Lorgat told the Daily Mail.

'But that is something the independent tribunal will have to decide upon.'

Former England captain Michael Atherton had earlier backed Aamer and said he was in the 'grip of evil' and ICC should treat him leniently over the other two cricketers.

--Indo--Asian News Service

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