Young Pakistan fast bowler Umar Gul has been sent to South Africa for treatment on a career-threatening back injury that has kept him out of action since April.

Gul, 20, has not played since the second Test against India in Lahore, where he was named man of the match after his return of five for 31 in India's first innings paved the way for a nine-wicket victory.

"He is one of our most promising bowlers and the senior team fitness trainer Murray Stevenson and physio Darryn Lifsun suggested he should go to Cape Town for consultation and treatment," Pakistan Cricket Board official Abbas Zaidi told Reuters on Sunday.

Zaidi added that Gul was expected to return to the Pakistan team for the tour of Australia later this year.

The paceman, who made his Test debut against Bangladesh last year, has played five matches for his country, taking 25 wickets at an average of 24.56.

He has also taken 19 wickets at 27.31 in 15 one-day internationals.

Gul, who has modelled himself on Australian fast bowler Glenn McGrath, was forced to skip the Asia Cup and has been ruled out of next month's ICC Champions Trophy.