Karachi: Controversial paceman Shoaib Akhtar said he would join the injury-hit Pakistan squad and would be available for the second Test against South Africa.

"I am flying out on Thursday and am gearing up to play for Pakistan in South Africa," Akhtar told sources.

The 31-year-old fast bowler was originally left out of the 17-man squad for the South African tour because of a lack of fitness, a decision criticised by former Pakistan players.

He was later summoned as replacement to fast bowler Umar Gul who hurt his ankle in a warm-up match in Kimberley.

Pakistan start the first Test against South Africa on Thursday.

"Akhtar, who featured in a domestic first class match this week to prove his fitness," said he would play the second Test starting at Port Elizabeth from January 19.

In November, Akhtar was banned for two years after testing positive for the banned steroid nandrolone but was relieved of the penalty on appeal.

He said he would do his best to help Pakistan win the three-Test series.

"Our team is very balanced and we can beat South Africa on their grounds," he said.

"It would be a great contest and I will try my best to help my team clinch the series," he said.
 

Akhtar, who has not played a Test since January last year, underwent twin knee operations in February and missed Pakistan's tour of England due to an ankle injury last year. Pakistan suffered a 3-0 defeat in England.

However, he featured in the one-day series against England but had to sit out Pakistan's recent home series against the West Indies due to suspension over doping.