Team-mates embraced Akhtar before Thursday's practice at R. Premadasa stadium where Pakistan play Australia on Saturday in their final group game ahead of the quarter-finals.
COLOMBO: Team-mates and former greats Thursday welcomed paceman Shoaib Akhtar’s decision to quit international cricket after the World Cup, saying he served the country well despite his controversies.
The 35-year-old announced he wanted to put an end to a 14-year international career which was plagued with injuries and by discipline problems.
“We feel sad for Akhtar as he has been a very nice team-mate and we’ll always remember him as someone who always tried hard for the team and every player thanks him,” said skipper Shahid Afridi.
Team-mates embraced Akhtar before Thursday’s practice at R. Premadasa stadium where Pakistan play Australia on Saturday in their final group game ahead of the quarter-finals.
“Akhtar told us about his decision and we respect that, so everyone wished him the best of luck in his future. I enjoyed playing with him,” said Afridi.
Team manager Intikhab Alam said Akhtar made the right decision.
“It’s always a sad day when a cricketer retires,” said Alam.
Alam also praised Akhtar’s decision.“He has done a fantsastic job for Pakistan and bowled his heart out. I feel sorry for him today but he chose a graceful way, we need characters like him on the field,” said Alam, also a former captain.
Coach Waqar Younis praised Akhtar’s decision.
“I played with him and then coached him. He has been a great bowler for the country and served the team well. It is a nice way to leave the place for youngsters and that’s somehting we must appreciate,” he said.
Former captain Ramiz Raja said he would like to remember Akhtar as a fighter.
“I would like to remember him as a tearaway bowler who with his strike-rate was a match winner on his day. He battled through injuries and controversies with a lot of heart throughout his career,” said Ramiz.
