KARACHI, 28 April 2006 — Pakistani all-rounder Shahid Afridi has performed a dramatic U-turn on his decision to temporarily retire from Test cricket, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said yesterday.

Afridi, 26, shocked his team when he announced this month that he was giving up the longer form of the game until after the 2007 World Cup to concentrate on limited-overs cricket. But yesterday PCB spokesman Abbas Zaidi issued a statement reporting that PCB Chairman Shaharyar Khan had persuaded Afridi to withdraw his temporary retirement from Test cricket. Khan had asked Afridi to review his decision “in the national interest and had assured him that PCB would be sensitive to the pressures that had led to his earlier decision,” the spokesman said.

“Afridi agreed to respond to the PCB chairman’s call and dedicated himself to the success of the team.” The decision means Afridi will be available for Pakistan’s tour of England in July and August, for the home series against the West Indies in November and also for their tour of South Africa early next year.

Afridi said in mid-April the strain of an excessive cricketing schedule was the main reason behind his decision and that he was not getting enough time to spend with his family.

Former Pakistan cricket legend Imran Khan has said that Afridi’s decision was “sentimental”. International Cricket Council President Ehsan Mani criticized him for refusing to play Tests while at the same time being ready to play for Ireland in the C&G trophy.

Imran Khan Expects Pace Duel on Pakistan’s England Tour

Former cricket great Imran Khan yesterday predicted a battle of the fast bowlers when Pakistan tour England in the summer.

Pakistan’s hopes depend on the fitness of spearhead paceman Shoaib Akhtar and new find Mohammad Asif, the legendary all-rounder said.

“The series between Pakistan and England will see a battle of pace and will be a treat to watch,” Khan told AFP.

Pakistan, who beat England 2-0 in their home series last year, play four Tests and five One-Day Internationals on the tour starting late June. The first Test starts at Lord’s on July 13.

“For Pakistan the key is Shoaib Akhtar’s fitness,” Khan said.

Akhtar is recuperating from twin knee operations held earlier this year. He took 17 wickets against England last year but is racing against time to regain full fitness before the tour.