Cricket: Shoaib, Umer returning to Pakistan
Pakistan Times Sports Desk

LAHORE: Express bowler Shoaib Akhtar’s trip to South Africa remained short lived as he is returning home by the first available flight after ruled out of action due to a hamstring and keen injury.

“He will be returning home along with another injured pace bowler Umer Gul who is nursing a sour ankle”, said PCB Spokesman, Dr. Ahsan Malik said here on Monday.

“It is not possible for send any replacement nor the team management has asked for it due to time constraints as the third test will be starting in three days”, he added.

Shoaib who joined the team ahead of the second test developed injuries during the test which Pakistan won by five wickets while Umer did not take part in the first two tests.

Dr Ahsan said both the players will be undergoing treatment and rehabilitation under the supervision of PCB medical experts and there is not reason that they should stay there.

“Shoaib Malik is fast recovering from an angle injury and the team management has asked that he should stay there and hopefully he will be available for the one day series”, he added.

PCB spokesman said team management has said it need replacements for the one-day series.

“The selection committee will take into consideration the present situation and suitable replacements will be named after consulting team management and the captain”, he said.●