KARACHI: Despite persistent injuries problems, Pakistan’s expressed fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar was looking to play in the 2011 Cricket World Cup. “I believe I still got three to four years international cricket left in me,” he told reporters at National Stadium on Tuesday. “I have fully gained my fitness and looking forward to serve the country,” he said.
Dubbed as “Rawalpindi Express” Shoaib Akhtar, who is leading Federal Areas in the Pentangular Cup, said bowlers like him crossing the barrier always have chances for injuries. He said great fast bowler Wasim Akram, Waqar Younus, Brett Lee, Bishop other all faced injuries problems during their careers.
Shoaib, who crossed the record of100-mile barrier, said he had worked very hard on his fitness and cut down his weight to around 15 kilos. “I am now much stronger. But I needed some matches to regain my rhythm,” he said.
Shoaib informed that after missing the opening ODI against West Indies in Abu Dhabi due to calf problem, he regained fitness but skipped remaining matches just not to disturb the winning combination. Shoaib said despite being senior player, he was never interested to lead the team.
33-year-old Shoaib, who took 219 wickets in 138 ODIs, said his ambition is to complete 400 wickets in One-day Internationals.
He said Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) officials are treating him well and selectors are using him with planning to cut the burden on him to extend his career. “I would like to play in selected matches,” he added.
Showing very friendly attitude with the media, Shoaib Akhtar said he was transferring his knowledge to the youngsters and Pentangular Cup was allowing him to spend more time with youngsters and pass on the few tips to them.
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Shoaib Akhtar vows to play 2011 World Cup
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