Karachi, Aug 21 - Pakistan Friday recalled dope-tainted fast bowler Mohammad Asif for the Champions Trophy in South Africa, bringing him in place of under-performing all-rounder Abdul Razzaq.

Chief selector Iqbal Qasim announced the 15-man squad for the elite eight-nation tournament for which seasoned all-rounder Shahid Afridi has been promoted as vice-captain in place of misfiring middle-order batsman Misbah-ul-Haq.

'We have announced the best Pakistan team possible for what I believe is the toughest tournament in international cricket,' said Qasim, a former Pakistan Test spinner.

Pakistan have selected five fast bowlers for the tournament to be played from Sep 22 to Oct 5 and Qasim said the decision was made considering the playing conditions in South Africa.

'The wickets are usually bouncy in South Africa and the conditions offer both swing and seam movement for fast bowlers, which is why we have selected five pacers for the 15-man squad,' he said.

Asif, who last played for Pakistan in April last year, is back to spearhead the pace battery that includes Umar Gul, Rao Iftikhar Anjum, Rana Naved-ul-Hasan and youngster Mohammad Aamer.