A fitting farewell for Wasim

Wasim Akram has responded positively to an offer from the Pakistan Cricket Board for a farewell appearance in a one-day international against South Africa later this year. Wasim announced his retirement from international cricket last month.

"[Wasim] had given nothing to us in writing and we want to give him a grand sendoff from international cricket," explained Lt-Gen. Tauqir Zia, the chairman of the PCB. Zia explained that the plan is for Wasim to be included in either the match at Lahore or Karachi: "It would be great to bid him farewell in front of his home crowd."

"It's a nice gesture on the part of PCB," said Wasim, who turned 37 on Tuesday. "It would be nice to end my career where I started. I wanted to retire by giving the World Cup to my countrymen, but we fared poorly and my dreams were shattered.

"I am sure it would be just a one-off match, because I don't want to block a youngster's career," added Wasim, one of eight senior players omitted from Pakistan's squad after their first-round exit from the World Cup in March. But it was clear that his ambitions have not yet been entirely fulfilled.

"I have heard there are efforts to stage two one-day games between Pakistan and India in September this year. It would be a dream come true if I get one chance against India in Pakistan," he added in an apparent volte face. "I can't forget our defeat against India in the World Cup so if I get another chance I will definitely end that with a win."

But the PCB still have their eye on Wasim's expertise. "We want him to train Pakistani youngsters," said Zia. "It would not be in our interest that he coach and train in England."