Pakistan call up Asif for decider

Pakistan have recalled Mohammad Asif, the 23-year-old fast bowler, for the final Test against England at Lahore next week. Asif played his only other Test against Australia at Sydney in January, where he went wicketless, but was impressive against England when he played for Pakistan A and took 10 wickets in the match.

Asif is the only new player in the Pakistan squad and replaces Shabbir Ahmed who is travelling to Australia for further remedial work on his action. When Asif made his debut he impressed the Pakistan management with his gutsy attitude and approach despite an onslaught by the Australian batsmen.

Shahid Afridi, who is banned for one Test after scuffing up the wicket at Faisalabad, also drops out but has not been replaced. Abdul Razzaq was not considered as he has yet to fully recover from his elbow injury, although he is hopeful of being available for the one-day series.

Wasim Bari, the chief selector, said: "We don't want to disturb the balance of the team which is very good. The best thing about this team is their fighting spirit even when the chips are down."

Pakistan squad Inzamam-ul-Haq (capt), Salman Butt, Shoaib Malik, Younis Khan, Mohammad Yousuf, Asim Kamal, Kamran Akmal (wk), Mohammad Sami, Danish Kaneria, Arshad Khan, Mushtaq Ahmed, Shoaib Akhtar, Rana Naved-ul-Hasan, Hasan Raza, Mohammad Asif.