MOHALI – Pakistan are considering playing their controversial fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar, who will retire after the World Cup, in Wednesday’s semi-final against arch-rivals India provided he is fit.
Shoaib, 35, has not played since Pakistan’s loss to New Zealand in the group stages and his international career appeared to be all but over. Media reports said he had fallen out of favour after an argument with wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal, who dropped Ross Taylor twice in one over. Taylor went on to score a match-winning century.
Captain Shahid Afridi said he would like to see Shoaib, known for his raw pace and aggression, play on Wednesday but he needs to be ready for the high-pressure game. “Shoaib is not 100 percent but I think he is trying his level best. We will decide it this evening,” Afridi told reporters on Tuesday.
Former Pakistan captain Imran Khan has been urging Afridi and coach Waqar Younis to take a chance with Shoaib. “I don’t know how fit he is but if he is available I would definitely play him even if he can bowl just five or six overs because he is a shock bowler and a wicket-taker and you need such a bowler in such a big match,” Imran said.
Hints that Shoaib might get a final fling at the World Cup emerged during news conferences with vice-captain Misbah-ul-Haq and pace bowler Umar Gul this week. Gul, who has spearheaded the Pakistan pace attack in Shoaib’s absence, said he would feel comfortable and confident if the veteran were to bowl at the other end against India.
Pakistan manager Intikhab Alam also did not rule out the possibility of a return. “Shoaib has been fully involved in match practice and is available for selection,” Intikhab said on the Pakpassion.net website.
