Woolmer accused of racism 17 Feb 2007 By: Zac Gelman

Pakistan coach Bob Woolmer has vehemently denied allegations of racism against fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar and has threatened to sue the newspaper that made the claims.

The Pakistani newspaper Dawn, claimed Woolmer called Akhtar a "blacky" during their sides recent tour of South Africa.

In an email defending himself to the media, Woolmer denied ever saying such things and said he was looking into suing the newspaper.

"I deny calling Akhtar anything or what is attributed in the newspaper," he said.

"I would never do so as a coach and I have already spoken to my solicitors regarding suing the paper. Such stories aim at distracting our focus for the World Cup."