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‘I wasn’t fit enough’ – Shoaib Akhtar reveals why he missed the chance to add another feather to his cap

Shoaib Akhtar has revealed that he missed the opportunity to add another feather to his cap due to fitness issues.

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Shoaib Akhtar

Shoaib Akhtar (Image credits: Twitter)

Shoaib Akhtar Shoaib Akhtar (Image credits: Twitter)

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar is regarded as one of the most fearsome bowlers in the history of cricket. The speedster is known as 'Rawalpindi Express' as he terrorised batters on his playing days with his firing deliveries. In 2002, against New Zealand, he held the record for the fastest delivery (161kph) in the history of the game. However, the batters' nightmare could have added one more feather to his cap for his national team but refused to take the opportunity.

The former Pakistan cricketer revealed that he was offered a chance to lead the Pakistan national team in 2002 but refused to take the role due to fitness issues. “I wasn't fit enough. I could play three matches out of five. I was offered captaincy in 2002, but then I would've played only 1.5-2 years (if I played all matches)," Akhtar told Suno News HD.

Series of changes in captaincy

During his 14-year career, which included 46 Tests and 163 ODIs, Akhtar had scattered appearances for his side due to frequent injuries. Meanwhile, Pakistan has seen continuous changes in captaincy during that time. After making his Test debut under Wasim Akram in November 1997, Akhtar made his ODI debut under Rashid Latif four months later. Over the years, Akhtar played for Pakistan under various captains but denied himself the chance to lead the team.
The 47-year-old also opened up about the mismanagement of his national team. “I supported my teammates, but the board was very unstable. There was mismanagement all over the board. Pakistan itself had faced mismanagement at that time.”
“When your culture endures mediocrity, every person in power is mediocre. The mediocrity continues to increase. You see what the state is today. Is there anything we can manage right now? Nothing. Everyone runs away from responsibility,” added Akhtar.

Meanwhile, Pakistan's current captain Babar Azam is now facing criticism from former greats as his team has been underperforming recently, especially in home matches. Pakistan suffered embarassing series defeats against England and Australia before playing two draws against New Zealand at home. Some also insisted Babar to give up the leadership role in one format.

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