Salim and May cross swords

Tim May, one of three Australian Test players to accuse Salim Malik of offering bribes, dismissed the former Pakistan captain yesterday in their first direct confrontation on the field since the scandal erupted.

Salim, who was cleared of the bribery charges last month, was stumped for 16 in Pakistan's tour match against South Australia. His departure left Pakistan struggling at 79 for 4 on the fourth and final day at the Adelaide Oval, but an unbeaten century by Basit Ali steered the tourists to a draw in their last match before the first Test against Australia, which starts in Brisbane on Thursday.

Chasing a target of 366 in three sessions, the tourists were 298 for 5 at the close. Basit, who scored 101 not out, shared a crucial century partnership for the fifth wicket with Inzamam-ul-Haq, who was eventually trapped lbw by Mark Harrity for 96.

May, who has threatened to take legal action against anyone who suggests he concocted his charge against Salim, appeared jublilant when he dismissed the veteran right-handed batsman. Early in his spell, May appeared to have words with Salim as the two crossed paths in the middle after a Pakistan run.

May will not play in the first Test, having been replaced by the paceman Craig McDermott, who returns to the side for the first time since spraining an ankle during the tour of West Indies earlier this year. Michael Bevan, who enjoyed great success as Yorkshire's overseas player last season, and Ricky Ponting have been unable to displace Greg Blewett.

AUSTRALIA (v Pakistan, first Test, Adelaide Oval, Thursday): M A Taylor (New South Wales, capt), M J Slater (NSW), D C Boon (Tasmania), M E Waugh (NSW), S R Waugh (NSW), G R Blewett (South Australia), I A Healy (Queensland), P R Reiffel (Victoria), B P Julian (Western Australia), S K Warne (Victoria), C J McDermott (Queensland), G D McGrath (NSW).