Cricket: Lancashire look to keep Wasim

Lancashire will not abandon their overseas player, Wasim Akram, in his benefit summer next year, even if his place on the field is taken by Shane Warne.

Wasim is still contracted for next season, but the Lancashire secretary, Dave Edmundson, explained the club have decided to pursue the Australian leg-spinner because of fitness doubts over the Pakistani captain, who has managed to play just one Championship match this season.

"Wasim is due to see his specialist again in London on 29 August. The subsequent medical report will be an indication of the timetable required for full fitness to be regained," Edmundson said.

"To guard against the prospect of Wasim being unable to fulfil his domestic commitments with Lancashire, the club have approached Shane Warne with a view to him becoming the overseas player for 1998.

"Wasim's benefit year will continue in 1998 and if he is not registered as the overseas player, then it is hoped he may be deployed in a coaching capacity."