Pakistan board eases Lawson's safety concerns

Geoff Lawson has flown to Islamabad for an interview for the Pakistan coaching job. Lawson, who is one of three Australians being considered for the role, said his interest in the position had hinged on the results of the Bob Woolmer investigation.

Lawson was contacted at short notice for the interview and left Australia on Saturday night after receiving assurances over his safety if he was appointed. "I was told that my personal safety was guaranteed," Lawson told The Sun-Herald. "The Pakistan cricket board have chased me, I haven't chased them.

"Given what's been revealed about Bob Woolmer - that he wasn't murdered - it changes the story about the job. I don't think my wife would be letting me go over there if the verdict had been murder."

Upon his arrival in Bhurban, a northern hill station near Islamabad, Lawson said he was honoured and felt great pride in being amongst the running candidates. "It is one of the most important jobs in world cricket," Lawson, who was part of the Australian team that lost 3-0 in a Test series in 1982, said. "I am actually in the running and it is great to be back in Pakistan after 25 years.

"I see Pakistan as a highly talented but underachieving side and that would be a great challenge for a coach, to get them playing at their best again. If there's one thing they don't lack, it's potential."

Pakistan have also shown interest in Richard Done, the former New South Wales fast bowler, and Dav Whatmore. The board hopes to have the new coach in place in time for the team's tour of Scotland in July.