London, Nov 6 (IANS): Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Asif, who is one of the three cricketers sentenced for spot-fixing, could be moved to an open prison, according to a report.

One of Asif's close friend revealed that the cricketer is likely to be shifted by the end of next week, ESPNCricinfo reported. An open prison will allow him more freedom and privileges than at a closed prison where more dangerous criminals are housed.

A call was made to the solicitors of Salman Butt but they did not confirm or deny whether this was also true for their client, the report said.

"Asif is currently being imprisoned at the high-security jail in Wandsworth, along with his former captain and co-conspirator Butt. It could not be confirmed if agent Mazhar Majeed was also at the same prison. Teenager Mohammad Aamer is thought to be at Feltham Young Offenders Institution, which has a reputation for being a harsh environment for inmates."

"I have only spoken to Asif a couple of times on the phone, I haven't been able to visit him just yet, but he has been told he will be moved to an open prison and that should happen within the next five to seven days," the friend said.