Former Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Akram has backed controversial pacer Shoaib Akhtar for the forthcoming tour of Australia, saying being one of the most experienced bowlers the country has, the selectors should give him a chance provided he is fit.

In an Interview with PakPassion.net, Akram said the toiir down-under is one of most challenging assignments for a cricket team, which makes Akhtar a must for the tour.

"Touring Australia isn’t for the faint hearted. You need your experienced guys out there, you need the guys out there who won't be phased by the opposition players, you need the guys who aren't going to be intimidated out there,"Akram, who spent some time with Akhtar in London, said.

Akram said the Rawalpinidi Express was recuperating fast following the knee operation that he had in London.