Pakistan call for Shoaib

Pakistan have picked Shoaib Akhtar for the first time since his five-year ban was lifted

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Shoaib Akhtar has been handed the chance to resurrect his international career after being named in Pakistan’s final 15-man squad for the Champions Trophy.

The 32-year-old speedster was facing international oblivion when he was handed a five-year ban by the Pakistan Cricket Board for violating their code of conduct earlier this year.

But that ban was reduced to 18 months on appeal and later suspended, paving the way for Shoaib to make his return.

“We held two trial matches where Akhtar proved his fitness and he is willing to return and since he is determined he is an asset for Pakistan," said chief selector Salahuddin Ahmed.

Also returning to boost Pakistan’s depleted pace reserves is Umar Gul, with Salahuddin saying: “They have a lot of experience between them and will give depth to the bowling."

Wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal, left out of the Asia Cup squad in June, also returns, while inexperienced batsmen Bazid Khan and Khalid Latif are given their chance.

“Bazid and Latif have been picked as our most experienced batsman Mohammad Yousuf is unavailable for the tournament and we hope they will add depth to the batting," said Salahuddin.

Shoaib’s inclusion had initially been dependent on him paying a fine imposed by the high court, but PCB chief operating officer Shafqat Naghmi revealed they had decided to waive the condition.

The Champions Trophy, which is being staged in Pakistan despite security fears voiced by players from a number of countries, begins on September 12 when the hosts face West Indies.