Pakistan Vs Sri Lanka Lethal but gentle Shoaib Akhtar takes wickets
Shoaib Akhtar gives Pakistan a perfect start against Sri Lanka by taking two wickets in seven overs. Just six months ago no one expected Akhtar to wear the green for Pakistan, his international career was all but over and here he is today; back in the Pakistan squad leading the bowling attack.
Shoaib Akhtar took his first wicket as early as the seventh over of the game where he got Tharanga, OUT. He bowled with 88.9 mph speed, It was a short delivery outside off and Tharanga went for the cut but edged it to first slip where vice captain Salman Butt takes the catch.
Usually Akhtar is known for this fly like an eagle celebration but this time around he just smiles and spreads his arms. There was no eagle run, he just stands there and walks towards his team-mates. Is this the new humble Shoaib Akhtar who is going to let his bowling do the running or is he just can’t believe he is back in the team.
This is the reality of Pakistan cricket where nothing is set in stone and on any given day anything can happen. A country which can produce fast bowling sensations at will where the careers are made and taken away over things that have nothing to do with cricket.
Shoaib without a doubt is one of the best fast bowler to walk the earth and if he continues his humble approach from today, the future looks brighter.
Here is the recap of his second wicket.
Instead of the usual long run up Shoaib Akhtar delivers the ball from a short run-up, a short 88.8 mph delivery outside off and Kapugedera goes for the cut shot. The ball flew quickly and slightly low to backward point where it was caught. Umar Akmal almost missed it, the ball popped out of his hands but did well to dive forward to secure the catch.
Once again Shoaib smiles gently, spreads his arms and walks slowly towards his team-mates. There was no flying eagle in sight and the new humble Shoaib Akhtar is pleased with his performance and so are the fans.
What else can Pakistan ask for, your star player is back and he has lived up to the expectations. Eight overs, 3 wickets and only 30 runs; Shoaib is excited, fans are happy and Shahid Afridi is pleased for taking the risk.
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