Karachi, Sep 9 (IANS): Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar Tuesday advised his compatriot Saeed Ajmal to legally challenge the ban slapped on him by the International Cricket Council (ICC) for his illegal bowling action.

"I just fear that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) does not leave Ajmal alone at this testing time for him and the Pakistan cricket. I think he has to decide for himself whether he should legally challenge the ban and new protocols or not," Shoaib was quoted as saying by a TV channel.

Shoaib himself has been at the receiving end of accusations of chucking during his playing days and was twice reported for a suspected bowling action.

"I think legal action is the best option for Ajmal at this time. I am surprised at the number of bowlers being reported for suspect actions all of a sudden by the ICC match officials. This new protocol needs to be challenged," said Shoaib.

Shoaib hoped that if Ajmal works hard on his action, it could still be rectified at the earliest.

"I was fortunate that when I was playing the board supported me a lot, particularly former chairman Tauqir Zia and the same is needed for Ajmal," he said.

Former captain Muhammad Yousuf said that Ajmal's future will depend on how strong the PCB pleads his case.

"It will all boil down to how much influence the PCB has in the ICC. It is a hard time for Ajmal but I hope the PCB fights his case properly and if hard work is done, his action can be corrected with the right measures," said Yousuf, adding that it was big blow to Pakistani cricket.