Akram admitted from his Lahore residence that the pain was there but its intensity was not the same as it was earlier this year. ``But I am very uncomfortable with it,'' Akram said. ``I contacted my specialist in England who was of the view that it was not a matter of concern. But frankly, it is easy for him to say this because he is not a professional sportsman like me with a lot of future commitments.''

Akram believed that the recurrence may be occurred in the match against India. He said he tried to bowl very fast which might have affected the shoulder.

Akram said he was not clear if he will be available for the Bangladesh triangular to be played in Dhaka from Jan 10. ``I am waiting to see how the shoulder goes on. If there is no more pain, I will go otherwise, I will pull out. I will convey my availability to the cricket board in a week's time.''

According to informed sources, Inzamamul Haq and Saeed Anwar are also doubtful starters for the Bangladesh tournament.

Inzamam is suffering from a rib-cage injury while Anwar wants some rest to prepare for an 18-month non-stop cricket starting with the tour of Africa in February and ending with the 1999 World Cup in July in England. Anwar, between April and September, will also play for Derbyshire in the English county season.