Karachi, June 17: Pakistan's former captain Wasim Akram has agreed to come out of retirement for a final appearance this year in the home series against South Africa. The 36-year-old, who announced his retirement from international cricket last month, told the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) that he would be happy to make one final appearance for Pakistan later this year. ''We want wasim to play one match this season so that we can give him a fitting farewell for his outstanding contribution to Pakistan cricket'', a PCB official said today. ''He has conveyed to us he would be happy to play in one match which is yet to be decided, but would probably be against South Africa'', general manager cricket operations Zakir Khan said. Wasim, who is the only bowler to have taken over 500 wickets in one-day internationals and another 414 test scalps, was dropped from the Pakistan squad after a disappointing world cup campaign in April.

The Pakistan board and selectors decided to rebuild the team with the introduction of new players and appointing wicketkeeper Rashid Latif as the interim captain after the world cup.

''The board chairman is keen that Wasim is properly recognised for his services and contribution to the game by the board. We had suggested to him to play one farewell match this season'', said Khan.

''Although he had announced his retirement in England he didn't officially convey it to us. But now he has said he would be delighted to play the farewell game'', Khan added.

Wasim is presently playing for Hampshire in the English county championship.

Bureau Report