Akram is negotiating with Canterbury Cricket over the possibility of playing in the Shell Cup one-day series from late December to early February.

Canterbury Cricket's chief executive Tony Murdoch said Akram had fond memories of his visits to Christchurch where he first toured in 1984-85, and then led Pakistan to a test victory in late 1995.

``He is very keen to come over for several seasons, not just a snatch-and-grab visit.''

Murdoch said Akram was keen to work with Canterbury's pace bowlers, and also make public appearances.

However, Murdoch said there was a still a gap between the two parties over finalising a deal which had to be negotiated through.