Leaner Wasim still hungry for more success

Wasim Akram plans to play international cricket for as long as possible - though he admits that the current tour will be his last series in England.

The 34-year-old Pakistan left-armer is keen to add to his 409 Test victims and his 101 Test appearances.

He was shocked after being left out of the side for the final Test of the series against England in Pakistan during the winter. He set about getting himself fitter and managed to lose "around two stones".

Wasim said: "I intend playing international cricket for as long as possible.

"I worked very hard on my fitness during the winter and feel very fit and happy about things with the intent of extending my international career as long as possible.

"The way I'm feeling now, I think I could carry on for at least a couple of more years."

That time period would rule out another meeting with England. Wasim, who played domestic cricket in England for Lancashire, said: "This is going to be my last tour of England and I want to make a success of it. I'm looking forward to going back to Old Trafford for the next Test in particular."