Akhtar leaves for India to take part in TV show

"I am going to India for a day to fulfil a commitment to take part in a television show and after that I will fly out to England to join Surrey," Akhtar told reporters at the airport.

Akhtar, who went to London to play for Surrey, had to return home two days back from Heathrow airport after immigration officials did not allow him entry as his work permit and visa documents were not complete. "Everything is now in order and I will join Surrey by Sunday," he said.

He also made it clear that he was keen to play for the county side as he wanted to test his form and fitness in some first class games.

"The eventual aim is to play for Pakistan and I feel Surrey offers me the best opportunity to prove my fitness. I am keen to prove myself to the selector and resume my Pakistan career," he stated.

The tribunal on appeal reduced Akhtar's five-year ban imposed by the PCB disciplinary committee in March to 18 months but added the fine.

Akhtar has not yet deposited the fine despite a legal notice sent to him by the PCB, making it clear he can't be considered for selection in the national side unless he pays the fine.

However, sources close to the bowler said he had stalled the fine issue as Pakistan had no immediate international commitments and he was confident that the Lahore High Court will start hearing his case this month and hopefully deliver a positive judgement. The court suspended the 18-month ban while admitting the petition for hearing two months ago.