Akhtar likely to return in Pakistan team
By IANSTuesday, May 25, 2010
KARACHI - Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar is likely to make another
return to the national team for the Asia Cup and England tour.
The fast bowler convinced the top Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) brass with his fitness while performing in the last month’s Pentangular Cup One-Day cricket tournament.
According to sources, the selection committee headed by former Test cricketer Mohsin Hasan Khan is considering the pacer for team’s assignments later this summer.
Pakistan will take part in Asia Cup in Sri Lanka starting from June 15 before leaving for tour of England where the team will play against the home team and Australia.
Shoaib, who has not represented Pakistan since May 2009, returned to action in last month’s domestic tournament where he impressed the selectors with his pace.
Following a knee surgery last year, the ‘Rawalpindi Express’ also underwent liposuction in November to remove excess weight from his body.
Akhtar said he has regained his fitness and can serve Pakistan for few more years.
Moreover, Shahid Afridi who will lead the side in England also wants the pacer in the side for upcoming tour of England where his side faces a stiff competition.
Sources say Afridi feels that the fast bowler could be a worthy inclusion in the team in tough English conditions where he holds a very good record.
Salahuddin Ahmed, Pakistan former chief selector has endorsed the idea saying a fit Shoaib is still an asset for Pakistan.
“If Shoaib Akhtar is fit he can prove fatal for opposition especially in English conditions, the team needs him for the tour,” he said.
