Karachi, Jan 11 : Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar who is often embroiled in different kinds of controversies, and at times criticised for his lack of commitment, has at last found someone to praise him. New Pakistan coach Geoff Lawson has reportedly said that the fast bowler played with "commitment" during the last Indian tour.

Lawson, an Aussie, who arrived here from Australia to take over the coaching reins of Pakistan team, predicted that the bowler could be a winning factor in the forthcoming home series against Australia later this year.

In his maiden chat with media persons after assuming the charge, said that Shoaib bowled superbly in the first Test at New Delhi where he gave "outstanding performance", but injuries and fever hampered his performance in the next two Tests.

"The pacer bowled and played with full commitment," The Nation quoted him as saying.

On off-the-field stories about Shoaib Akhtar on Indian tour, he said they were not related to cricket and had not affected his performance.

ANI