19 December 2004	Sunday	06 Ziqa'ad 1425

PERTH, Dec 18: Pakistan premier strike bowler paceman Shoaib Akhtar was taken to hospital for a scan on his left shoulder during first cricket Test against Australia Saturday in Perth.

Shoaib sustained the injury when he dived in the field soon after lunch on the third day of match.

"There is extensive bruising around the shoulder," said a Western Australia Cricket Association spokesman.

"But there is no tearing or structural damage, although a surgeon will have to confirm that."

Shoaib only bowled 6.3 overs in the second innings and is not expected to play any further part in the match.

But Pakistan camp is hopeful that the paceman will be available for the two remaining Tests and one-day series involving Australia and West Indies which follows.-Agencies