LAHORE: Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar was cleared Wednesday to resume his career outside the country.

Akhtar can play anywhere in the world except for Pakistan,’’said Farrukh Aftab, chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board appeal tribunal, told reporters.

He said that Shoaib could not play cricket within Pakistan and for the national team.

The fast bowler however has not been banned to play cricket outside Pakistan. He said the disciplinary committee has only imposed ban on him over playing in Pakistan.

The committee chairman further said that the fast bowler would not be selected for the national team for five years.

Replying a question he said the ban on Shoaib has not been softened due to any pressure.