PCB bans Shoaib's speed test

Pakistani cricket authorities have barred paceman Shoaib Akhtar from taking part in the "world's fastest bowler" competition in India later this year.

A spokesman for Pakistan Cricket Control Board (PCB) did not give a reason but said Shoaib could not participate in such competitions without the board's permission and in no case before the World Cup next year.

"There is no question of Shoaib Akhtar joining the proposed competition before the World Cup," spokesman Khalid Butt told Reuters.

"Even after the World Cup his appearance will be subject to the approval by the Board."

PCB's refusal came amid a military standoff between Pakistan and India over the disputed Kashmir region.

Both sides have mobilised about a million troops along their borders since a December attack on the Indian parliament which New Delhi blamed on Pakistan-based Islamic militants fighting its rule in Kashmir.

The organisers of the fastest bowlers' competition, International Management Group (IMG), said on Wednesday Shoaib and Australia's Brett Lee -- currently the fastest bowlers in the game -- had agreed to take part. Eight other bowlers will also participate in the event, IMG in Bombay said in a release.

Shoaib, 26, was clocked at 161 km (100.6 miles) an hour in April, a fraction over the 100 miles per hour mark, during a one-day game against New Zealand at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium.

Lee had been clocked at 99.4 miles an hour against South Africa in Cape Town earlier in the year.

The International Cricket Council has, however, said such feats would remain unofficial.

"Shoaib is a valuable asset of Pakistan and he cannot be allowed to appear in any competition without the proper permission of the Board," Butt said.

Shoaib rocked Australia in Brisbane on Tuesday with five wickets for 25 in a rousing display of express bowling, leading Pakistan to an unexpected 2-1 one-day series win over the World Cup holders.

Mail Cricket Editor