Lawson willing to return but wants apology from PCB chief Butt

Lahore, Feb.12 (ANI): Former Pakistan cricket coach Geoff Lawson has said he is willing to return to the team, but only if the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) apologises for disgracefully sacking him.

It is uncertain whether the PCB has approached Lawson for the top job or not, but the former Australian fast bowler said he would consider any offer only after settling all issues with PCB chairman Ijaz Butt.

"I will not consider any offers from Pakistan cricket while Ijaz is still involved in any capacity with the PCB unless he offers a full and detailed apology," Lawson said.

Lawson was appointed Pakistan coach in 2007 for two years. However, in 2008 Butt made it clear that Lawson's contract would not renewed once he completes his term in 2009.

When asked as to who he would like to replace Intikhab Alam as Pakistan's coach, Lawson said he does not want to recommend any name, but hinted that the current Under-19 coach Ijaz Ahmed would be a suitable person for the top job.

"I have no suggestions as to a suitable replacement but Ijaz Ahmed seems like a good person to start with," he said, adding " Mautisham Rasheed should be immediately reinstated as the fielding coach on full time basis to help restore the quality of fielding." (ANI)