West Indies captain Brian Lara has been cleared of serious injury after being struck in the neck by a short pitched delivery from Shoaib Akhtar during his side's seven-wicket victory over Pakistan in the Champions Trophy semi-final on Wednesday.

An ICC statement said Lara will remain under observation but is expected to lead West Indies against hosts England in the final at the Oval on Saturday.

Lara fell to the ground after being struck by a delivery from the Pakistan fast bowler, who had produced several 150 kph deliveries in his opening spell.

Lara appeared to lose sight of Akhtar's second delivery, turned away and was struck on the side of the neck.

Akhtar rushed up to try and help but Lara, who had made 31 from 30 balls, remained on the ground for several minutes before being led off the pitch and had to retire hurt.

The ICC quoted West Indies physiotherapist Andrew Simpson saying Lara suffered a short spell of dizziness and a slight headache after leaving The Rose Bowl ground in Southampton but had been cleared of serious injury by the ground medical doctor.