September 21, 2007	Friday	Ramazan 08, 1428

KARACHI, Sept 20: Pakistan paceman Shoaib Akhtar is unlikely to play in the Test series against South Africa because of a disciplinary inquiry into his conduct starting next week.

Shoaib was sent home from South Africa a fortnight ago, before the start of the Twenty20 World Championship after he struck team-mate Mohammad Asif with a bat during a row. The fast bowler claimed all-rounder Shahid Afridi had provoked the brawl and added that he accidentally hit Asif with the bat.

Chairman Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Dr Nasim Ashraf told a news conference that the disciplinary committee would start its work on Shoaib’s case in a week’s time.

Asked if Shoaib would be considered for the Tests against the visiting South Africa, Dr Nasim replied: “We will not interfere in the work of the disciplinary committee or the selectors. This is a serious issue and will be investigated fully.”South Africa announced a strong 14-member squad on Thursday and play the first Test in Karachi from Oct 1. The second Test starts on Oct 8.

Dr Nasim said the disciplinary committee would question all the players after they returned home from South Africa and would also investigate how news of the incident was leaked to the press.

He added that he was confident that senior batsman Mohammad Yousuf would be available for the Tests against South Africa despite having joined the rebel Indian Cricket League (ICL).

“He is a gentleman and I am confident we can convince him to withdraw from the contract and play for Pakistan. The selectors should prepare for the Tests with him in mind.”

Yousuf joined the ICL along with former captain Inzamam-ul-Haq, Abdul Razzaq and Imran Farhat after being dropped for the Twenty20 World Championship.—Reuters