Akhtar cleared to play domestic event

Islamabad: The Pakistan Cricket Board is dropping its opposition to fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar playing in next month's domestic Twenty20 tournament.

The PCB had sought a ruling from Lahore High Court judge Sayed Zahid Hussain on whether Akhtar was eligible to play in, or for, Pakistan without paying an outstanding fine of 7 million Pakistan rupees ($89,514).

The Lahore High Court on Monday deferred making a decision on Akhtar's pending fine until October 3 - a day before the Twenty20 tournament begins in Lahore. Akhtar will represent the Islamabad Leopards team in the tournament.

Akhtar was fined and handed a five-year ban in April by a PCB tribunal for a disciplinary breach after he criticised the Pakistan selectors. The ban was later reduced to 18 months by another tribunal, but a heavy fine was recommended.