Shoaib Akhtar aims to facilitate his return through Quaid-e-Azam Trophy

LAHORE - Controversial Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar will be seen in action in the country’s premier first class tournament, the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, to prove his fitness in order to make a comeback to the national squad.

Akhtar would be playing for Khan Research Laboratories in the tournament beginning October 10, The Daily Times reports.

“Shoaib is keen to appear in the tournament and prove his match fitness to the selectors as he is targeting a return to the national team for the one-day series against New Zealand in Abu Dhabi and Dubai in October,” an Islamabad Cricket Association official said.

Akhtar last played against Australia in an ODI series in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, but he struggled with his form and fitness during the whole event.

Earlier, the 33 year-old pacer was selected for a home one-day series against Sri Lanka but was dropped midway for poor form and fitness. He then pulled out of the Tests against the same team due to a knee injury. (ANI)