Paceman brought in to relieve strain on fast-bowlers
Pakistan paceman Mohammad Sami has been recalled for the tour of Australia, providing him an opportunity to revive his ebbing career.
Sami was brought in due to a team management request for an additional fast bowler to help ease the load on the existing squad members in what is expected to be a gruelling tour.
"The selection committee has agreed to send Sami as reinforcement player to join the Pakistan team in Australia," said a Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) statement.
The 28-year-old will supplement an attack including Umar Gul, Mohammad Asif, Mohammad Aamer and Abdur Rauf.
Sidelined
The right-arm fast-bowler was sidelined for poor form after playing the last of his 33 Tests against India at Bangalore back in December 2007.
Sami then joined the unofficial Indian Cricket League (ICL) and was consequently banned from playing international cricket in early 2008.
Earlier this year the PCB forgave all 23 Pakistan players who joined the ICL after they suspended their contracts in India.
Sami has so far taken 81 wickets in 33 Tests, and another 118 in 83 one-day internationals.
The paceman, who is widely regarded as one of the most talented bowlers who fails to capitalise on his potential, has demonstrated recent good form in the country's domestic cricket league, taking 30 wickets.
"I am very happy and am confident of making the most of this chance to resurrect my career," said Sami.
Pakistan play the first of three Tests against Australia at Melbourne later this month, and will also play five one-day internationals and a Twenty20 on the tour.
