Karachi: Pakistan’s Chairman of Selectors Wasim Bari appreciated the attitude and approach of enigmatic fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar but refused to guarantee him a place in the England-bound squad.
"We have been told that his attitude and approach is very positive. We will invite him for a fitness camp and then monitor his progress," Bari said.
He said Shoaib was an important player but the decision to include the speedster in the squad would be taken after consulting a team of trainers.
"It is a sensitive and important decision that will be taken in consultation with the team management and the team of trainers. We have a long tour of England and we know Shoaib (Akhtar) will be an important player."
Akhtar has been out of action since the series against India in February.
After the 'Rawalpindi Express' underwent arthroscopy in his knees in Australia in April, he is rehabilitating under the supervision of trainer Grant Compton.
"In the fitness camp, Shoaib Akhtar will have an excellent opportunity to impress the team management. He is a senior pro and although I haven't had a chance to talk to him
lately, but we have been told that he is training hard," Bari said.
The selection committee is expected to name 25 cricketers for another fitness camp starting at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore from May 25.
The Pakistan team leaves late in the month of June for a three-and-a-half month tour during where they will play four Tests and five One-Day Internationals.
Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq said a fit Shoaib Akhtar would boost his team's chances in England where the green caps have not lost a series in 24 years.
"We all know what Shoaib is capable of. His talent has never been questioned but it’s his fitness that worries us. He has recently undergone knee injury and in the fitness camp we
just want to see how he has responded.
"Fast bowlers put a lot of stress on their bodies and when you talk about someone like Shoaib, who regularly bowls at over 90 mph, you can well imagine what his body goes
through and especially his knees.
"But he is a determined lad who has always bounced back from serious injuries and I am sure he will do the same this time around," Inzamam said.
Akhtar tormented England last year when he took 17 wickets in Pakistan's 2-0 series win.
"As a captain, I always stay in touch with every team member. I have also talked to Shoaib and I am pleased that he is motivated and geared up for the England tour," Inzamam said.
Akhtar, who has 165 Test and 199 One-Day wickets, had recently said he was focussed on the England tour.
"My rehabilitation is on the right track and I have started bowling from a shorter run-up. I am confident that by the time we land in England, I will be in my full rhythm."
Akhtar toured in England 2001 but only bowled in the first innings of the Lord's Test before quitting the team on medical grounds.
Comments
0 comment