Shoaib Akhter recalled to Pakistan squad!

Shoaib Akhtar was banned for 13 matches and fined 28,000

Pakistan have recalled controversial fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar for the series-deciding one-day international against South Africa in Lahore.

Shoaib, who has completed a 13-match ban imposed on him by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), is in the squad for Monday's fifth and final one-dayer.

He is also in the Pakistan squad for next month's one-day series in India.

"He remains a key player and will boost the pace attack for the Indian tour," said chief selector Salahuddin Ahmed.

the presence of Shoaib and Asif will make our bowling dependable Chief selector Salahuddin Ahmed

Shoaib was sent home from the Twenty20 World Cup in South Africa in September after he struck fellow paceman Mohammad Asif with a bat during a brawl before the tournament started.

He was banned for 13 matches and fined 28,000 for four breaches of the code of conduct.

Shoaib was also put on probation for two years which means if he is again found guilty of violating the PCB's code of conduct he could be banned for life.

Pakistan will name the squad for the three Tests in India at a later date.

606: DEBATE Give your reaction to Shoaib Akhtar's recall

"For the one-dayers we believe we have picked the most balanced outfit and the presence of Shoaib and Asif will make our bowling dependable," said Ahmed.

The selectors added Akhtar and all-rounder Fawad Alam to the squad of players who have featured against South Africa.

Pakistan will play India in five one-dayers starting on 5 November in Guwahati.