Akhtar ‘fully motivated’ for World Cup semi-final against India: Intikhab Alam
March 28th, 2011 - 1:35 pm ICT by ANI
Mohali, Mar 28(ANI): Pakistan team manager Intikhab Alam has dismissed reports that fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar’s focus was no longer on cricket after announcing his retirement from international cricket last week, and said that he is ready for the much-anticipated World Cup semi-final clash with India in Mohali.
“Shoaib has been fully involved in match practice, and is available for selection. He’s very much part of the squad and there is no question about his motivation or enthusiasm to play in this important game. Akhtar is ready for the semi final,” PakPassion.net quoted Alam, as saying.
“The rumours about Shoaib no longer focussing on cricket after announcing his retirement are false. Shoaib has been training hard with his team mates throughout the tournament and it’s been no different since he announced his retirement. He has taken part fully in training and not missed any sessions,” he added.
Alam, however, did admit that the 35-year-old has not been 100 percent fit at any point during the World Cup, due to his long-term knee injury.
“I wouldn’t say Shoaib is 100 percent match fit. He’s been carrying a knee problem and has been in pain during the tournament, but to his credit has still managed to play some matches,” Alam said. (ANI)
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Tags: clash, focussing, game, India, international cricket, intikhab alam, knee injury, knee problem, match, mohali, motivation, much anticipated world, pakistan team, retirement, rumours, sessions, team mates, world cup