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Last Updated: Monday, 29 October 2007, 13:34 GMT
Lawson backs 'last chance' Shoaib
Shoaib Akhtar
Shoaib Akhtar was banned for 13 matches and fined �28,000
Pakistan coach Geoff Lawson believes Shoaib Akhtar will shine on tour in India but admitted it could be the controversial bowler's last chance.

Shoaib has recently completed a 13-match ban imposed on him by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for hitting team-mate Mohammad Asif.

Lawson told Indian TV channel Times Now: "Shoaib Akhtar will be the biggest threat to India.

"He understands this is probably his last chance."

Shoaib was recalled for the series-deciding one-day international against South Africa on Monday in Lahore and is also in the Pakistan squad for the one-day series in India, starting 5 November.

"At the moment Shoaib is doing all the right things and looks fit," added Lawson.

"If he is at his peak then he'll be a dominant force in this series. My job is to make sure that he is at his peak."

The 32-year-old was sent home from the Twenty20 World Cup in South Africa in September after striking fellow paceman Asif with a bat during a brawl before the tournament began.

Although he has completed the ban, Shoaib is still on probation and any breach of discipline would see a life-ban imposed on him.

SEE ALSO
Shoaib to play in series decider
28 Oct 07 |  Cricket
Shoaib recalled to Pakistan squad
26 Oct 07 |  Pakistan
South Africa win sets up decider
26 Oct 07 |  Cricket
Shoaib banned after hitting Asif
11 Oct 07 |  Pakistan
South Africa in Pakistan 2007
23 Oct 07 |  International Teams


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