Wasim Akram to consult lawyers over renewed allegations

Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram says he will consult his lawyers over renewed allegations of match fixing, reports SADA news agency.

"I am deeply disappointed, I went through two comprehensive inquiries and once again baseless allegations have started surfacing," he said here.

Former Pakistan pacer Sarfraz Nawaz Saturday alleged that Akram had amassed illegal assets worth three billion rupees and was involved in match fixing.

"I will consult my lawyers and discuss these allegations and my plan of action," he said. "It's unfortunate that such allegations are hurled time and again, damaging my reputation. I have declared my assets and regularly pay taxes."

A one-man commission is probing whether Pakistan played fixed matches in the World Cup 1999 held in England.

Akram captained the Pakistan team in the World Cup. Pakistan's surprise loss of 62 runs against minnows Bangladesh in the first round and then defeat against rival India raised doubts of match-fixings.

Nawaz backed allegations of match fixing during Pakistan's defeats against Bangladesh and India.

Akram, who took eight wickets in Patron's Trophy game for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) against National Bank, said he was delighted with his form.

"I am delighted with my form and hope to carry it to Sharjah and help Pakistan win the tri-series," he said. "I have regained my fitness and bowled fast and never faced any fitness problem during the match."

Akram said he would continue playing for PIA in domestic games. "I have decided to play as much as possible for PIA and playing domestic cricket would help me gain match fitness and form," he said.

--Indo-Asian News Service

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