Shoaib sidelined but upbeat

Akhtar was not considered for the match against Australia on Saturday but as the side’s senior statesman,he was quite busy on the sidelines. According to sources the temperamental bowler had a heated argument with Kamran Akmal over the two dropped catches after their humiliating defeat to New Zealand,leading to a tense atmosphere in the dressing room.

Akhtar,however,seems to be taking this in his stride. “I wanted to make way for the juniors,so even if I don’t get my 250th wicket it is fine. It will be a dream to reach that landmark,but if I don’t get picked,there is not much I can do. I still remain the fastest bowler in this World Cup.”

“Pakistan winning the World Cup is far more important than reaching personal goals. For me,nation comes first. That’s the way I have been. So I will accept any team decision,” Akhtar said. The cricketer said he will be ready in case the team needed him. “There will be no sadness if I don’t play. I have had my time and it was my determination to play this World Cup,which I have done. I was good enough to play for Pakistan again.”

Akhtar,whose career has been marked with controversies,said,“I want to be born a cricketer again. I am a true Pakistani who is honest and with a clear conscience. Even if I have pain in my bones,I will love to bowl fast once again.”