Pakistan are considering calling up Mushtaq Ahmed, the veteran legspinner, for the forthcoming Test series in England. Hit with a spate of injuries - Shoaib Akhtar has been ruled out with an ankle injury and Rana Naved-ul-Hasan may require surgery and a six-week rest - Pakistan have shown a renewed interest in the Sussex spinner.
Inzamam-ul-Haq disclosed to Reuters that Mushtaq, who has maintained good form for Sussex, was definitely an option. "The injuries to our main bowlers Shoaib Akhtar and Rana Naved are a bit unsettling and we are thinking along the lines of balancing the attack by turning to Mushtaq for the Tests," he said. "His form for them has been outstanding and he clearly relishes bowling in English conditions. His experience could be invaluable for us."
Mushtaq, 35, has not played for Pakistan since October 2003 against South Africa. He was included in the Test squad for a home series against England in late 2005 but did not play. He was subsequently appointed as a bowling consultant.
Pakistan play four Tests and five one-day internationals starting July 13 at Lord's.
