Karachi: Banned Pakistan paceman Mohammad Aamer vowed Thursday to prove himself as a "better player and better human being" after his spot-fixing ban was relaxed by the cricket world governing body. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has said Aamer, 22, can return to domestic matches with immediate effect, ending his five-year suspension from all forms of the game some eight months early.

Aamer, who was banned for his part in a scandal in which he arranged no-balls to order in a 2010 Test against England, said he was overwhelmed by the ICC announcement. "It's the biggest news of my life," he told AFP by phone. "It was the most difficult phase of my life but I am sure it's over now and I am keen to return to international grounds." Aamer was banned along with his captain Salman Butt and new ball partner Mohammad Asif.