The Pakistan Cricket Board has reacted angrily to reports that Mohammad Yousuf's - formerly Yousuf Youhana - conversion to Islam was influenced by religious elements within the team.

In a statement the PCB said: "[We] categorically state that Yousuf's decision was entirely personal and that no religious oriented pressure or influence was brought to bear on him by current or former players. The press report...is baseless and should be ignored."

Yousuf, 31, who has played 59 Tests and 202 ODIs for Pakistan, converted to Islam from Christianity earlier this week and it has caused tensions in his family. He is expected to play a crucial role in the Test series against England, starting in November.