The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has accepted the request of Wasim Akram to exempt him from the two-Test series against South Africa starting at Durban from December 26.

"The Chairman of the PCB Lt Gen Tauqir Zia talked to Wasim Akram over telephone yesterday (Tuesday). And after listening to his side of the story, has agreed to accommodate his request," Acting Director Zakir Khan said.

Wasim Akram had been selected in the two-Test side on November 29 after he had conveyed his availability to the selectors.

"I am not in a position to divulge details of the conversation held between the Chairman and Wasim Akram," Zakir added.

The Pakistan cricket selectors had named a 16-man team for the two Tests. No replacement for Wasim Akram will be flown, Zakir said, adding that now only 15 players will be available for selection in the Test series.

"The decision to not send a replacement for Wasim Akram has been taken in consultation with chief selector Wasim Bari," Zakir said.

Wasim Akram, along with Rashid Latif and Misbah-ul-Haq will return home on December 20. Hanif Mohammad, the batting consultant, will leave for South Africa on December 14 while Hasan Raza will join the team for the Tests on December 17.

Samiul Hasan
GM - Media
December 11, 2002

© PCB