The injury-prone Shoaib Akhtar has set his sights on lasting out the whole season this year especially the forthcoming test series against South Africa, India and Australia. Shoaib left with the Pakistan squad on Wednesday for Glasgow where they play two one-day games against Scotland and India next week. He was selected having played just one test and four ODIs since February last year after an array of knee, hamstring and groin problems.
"It is never easy coming back from a prolonged lay-off due to fitness issues," Shoaib told reporters before the team's departure.
"But I am feeling the best I have in my entire career. I see this chance as a new start for me and a chance to end my playing days in a creditable manner," " my target is now to remain fit for the coming test series," he said. "This is one of the biggest international cricket seasons for Pakistan. We play three of the best teams in the world and I want to be part of it all," said Shoaib. "I want to be recognised for my performances and I don't think you can get better opposition to do that than against these three teams."
In response to a question regarding a junior player's appointment as vice captain, he said that junior players will become senior players in the future and he doesn't see any problem with such appointment.
Pakistan host South Africa for two tests and five one-dayers in October and then tour India in November and December for three tests and five one-day matches. Early next year they host the Australians.
Team manager and interim coach Talat Ali said efforts would be made to nurse Shoaib through a hectic and tough season.
"He has come back after a long while and we will not try to overburden him although he is our main bowler. Our other bowlers are good as well
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