Warne may be scared out of World Cup

The Australian spinner Shane Warne has confirmed he may withdraw from next month's World Cup because of fears for his safety.

Warne, who yesterday was quoted in an Australian newspaper saying he feared for his life in Pakistan, has revealed he has received several letters threatening him harm if he plays in the tournament. "My worry is there will be a few hotheads who might do something nasty. Once I'm out on the field I'm open to a crazy act," Warne said.

Warne was one of three Australian players who accused the former Pakistan captain Salim Malik of attempted bribery during a tour in October 1994.

Malik was cleared after Australian officials refused to allow the three players to fly to Pakistan to testify.

Australia's 14-man World Cup squad will be named tomorrow.