Shoaib targets Pakistan return with Surrey stint

KARACHI (AFP) - Fit-again Shoaib Akhtar vowed Tuesday to use a short stint with Surrey to mount a comeback at international level, saying he would do his best to help the English county side avoid relegation.

Surrey, who look set for the drop as they are bottom of the County Championship table with only three matches to go, have recruited the mercurial Pakistan paceman on a contract until the end of the season.

Akhtar, on the way back from injury and disciplinary breaches, will fly to London on Wednesday.The 33-year-old said there could be no better launching pad for a return.

"I am honoured to play for a county like Surrey," Akhtar told AFP. "I will do my best to win all three matches for the county and I am fit and raring to go."