Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akthar makes massive statement on being offered Pakistan captaincy in 2002
Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar made a reputation for himself as being one of the fastest bowlers in International Cricket. He terrorised batters with his furious pace. Akhtar has the record for bowling the fastest ball in international cricket at 161 kmph. He has picked up 158 wickets in 287 ODIs at an average of 39.18. Akhtar has been a great asset to Pakistan Cricket.
He recently revealed in an interview with Cricket Pakistan that he had been given a chance of becoming Pakistan Captain in 2002, which he declined. He said that he would not have played to his full potential as a bowler if he was appointed as captain and that he would have found it difficult to juggle both roles.
The board was unstable – Shoaib Akhtar on the reason behind rejecting captaincy
“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),” he told Cricket Pakistan. “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,” The former Pakistan fast-bowler added.
Akhtar did well for Pakistan in the white flannels as he picked up 35 wickets in 32 Test matches. He was one of the most menacing bowlers when he played, but unfortunately, his career was marred by injuries. He played an important role in the 2011 World Cup where he helped Pakistan reach the semi-finals which was his last big tournament as a player.
The Rawalpindi Express, as he was fondly called, has made a wonderful career on social media and has a YouTube channel, which has a lot of following. He has a no-frills approach when it comes to giving his opinions and talks straight from the heart. Akhtar has been a great admirer of Pakistan Cricket and passionately supports the national side.
