Beleaguered Akhtar planning a comeback ahead of NZ, Australia tour
July 29th, 2009 - 4:51 pm ICT by ANI
Karachi, July 29 (ANI): Controversial Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar is eyeing a successful return to the national team during the forthcoming New Zealand and Australia tours.
Sources close to Akhtar said the pacer is planning a definite strategy to facilitate his comeback.
They said he is planning a strict training regime to regain his form and fitness and lost speed.
Pakistan would first visit New Zealand for a Test series in November, and then fly to Australia in December for three match Test series and five One-day Internationals. It will also play a Twenty20 match on the tour.
However, regaining fitness would not ensure a place in the national team for Akhtar, as he is entangled in a legal battle with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) over a repeated breach of central contract.
Akhtar, who last played an international match against Australia during the UAE One-day series, has been described as a spent force by former cricketers and critics.
Former captain Wasim Akram said Akhtar’s career was nearly over after the pacer was dropped from the 30-man provisional squad for the Champions Trophy.
“I don’t think he has got a chance, unless and until some miracle happens. Even though it depends on the captain and selectors, I think Shoaib has fallen out with the selectors and the board,” Akram said.
Akhtar is also fighting a case in the Lahore High Court (LHC) against an 18-month ban and a fine of seven million rupees, The News reports. (ANI)
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- Consistent year of losing for Indian cricket: Akram - Apr 03, 2012
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- PCB's decision not to name Pak skipper for World Cup "strange practice": Akram - Jan 20, 2011
- Abdul Qadir resigned due to "lack of independence", dispute over Akhtar's selection - Dec 29, 2010
- Akhtar likely to return in Pakistan team - May 25, 2010
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