Akram backs Shoaib's withdrawal

Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram has backed fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar's decision to withdraw from the Test series in India because of injury.

"I think he took the sensible decision. Because no bowler no matter how great is of any use to his team if he is struggling with an injury," Wasim told Reuters on Sunday.

"Shoaib should concentrate on regaining his fitness properly and then make a comeback in the one-day series in India but Pakistan will miss him in the Test matches."

Shoaib pulled out on Friday because of a hamstring problem but the Pakistan selectors will consider the 29-year-old for the one-day series is he is fit.

Wasim, who captained Pakistan to a Test win in Chennai on their last full tour of the country in 1999, was also pleased with the inclusion of off-spinner Arshad Khan, recalled to the squad after a five-year absence.

"The selectors have done well to recall Arshad Khan to partner Danish Kaneria. These two have a role to play to keep Pakistan in a Test on all five days," said the former fast bowler who took 414 Test wickets.

Pakistan arrive in India on February 28 for their first full series in the country for six years. They will play three Tests and six one-day internationals.