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Akhtar to quit

R.K. Radhakrishnan

COLOMBO: One of cricket's most controversial characters, Pakistan's fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar, has announced his retirement from all forms of the game after the World Cup.

“I have decided to retire… This World Cup is my last one and will be the last of my international career,” he told a crowded press conference at the R. Premadasa stadium here on Thursday.

Describing his career as “the most significant part of my life” he said he “wanted to go on forever. But I have decided to make way for youngsters. I have no regrets. I made lots of friends but some people have misunderstood me. I thank all the players who played with and against me.”

Akhtar was rarely anywhere near his best in the current edition of the World Cup.

In between he missed the game against Canada (rested, we were told), and was dropped against Zimbabwe after his performance against New Zealand. He delivered against Sri Lanka in a crunch match though.

Akhtar said at the press conference he was glad that he was not involved in any of the controversies that afflicted Pakistan players.

Akhtar has been sounding out his close friends about retirement for at least the past six months. He appears to have shared his decision with the Pakistan team management soon after he made his decision to retire in Sri Lanka. On Thursday morning, before the team went out for its routine practice at the stadium, he spoke to them in the dressing room. Most of his teammates, barring the seniors, had no idea what Akhtar was about to say.

One insider said emotions ran high as Akhtar made an emotional speech speaking almost rationally about himself, the Pakistan team, and imploring everyone to rise to the challenge. After a round of extended bear-hugs and tears, the team was at the nets.

On future plans, he said he was willing to train young fast bowlers and be available to the Pakistan Cricket Board. “I never imagined I would play for Pakistan. It was my greatest moment… Pakistan's last match in this World Cup will also be my last. I hope that will be the final on April 2,” he said.

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