Wasim Akram fired up for final tour of England

Pakistan fast bowler Wasim Akram says he doesn't intend to retire in the near future, and is fired up to play in England.

"I am all geared up to play as this will be my last tour of England," said Akram, 35 next month. "I have played most of my cricket in England and I love playing there."

Akram has been included in Pakistan's 17-strong squad for next month's tour, which includes two Tests and a tri-nation one day series, also involving Australia.

Akram palmed off reports of any disagreements with captain Waqar Younis, saying: "I don't believe in rumours so I can't comment on whether my selection was contentious or Younis said anything against me.

"We have played a lot of cricket together and will continue to play with each other, its exciting to bowl with him."

Akram missed Pakistan's last four Tests due to fitness problems. "It happens to every fast bowler and its not because of my age," he said.

Between them, Akram and Younis have taken over 700 wickets, and they formed a particularly impressive pace attack during the 1990s.

They spearheaded Pakistan's wins over England in the 1992 and 1996 tours. While Akram took 23 and 11 wickets, Younis' contribution was 22 and 16.

"I have the experience of playing in English conditions and will do my best to help the side win again," he said.

Pakistan have won their last three series in England but lost a home series 1-0 to Nasser Hussain's side last December.

"We now have a young team but all the players are fighters and I hope we can win the series in England, although the wet climate favours them," he said.

Pakistan leave for England on May 2.