The Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Akhtar says he feels ready to take on Australia in the Chapal Cup, following a week of training at Dubai Sports City’s Cricket Stadium.
The 33 year-old, nicknamed the ‘Rawalpindi Express’ for his lighting quick bowling, has recovered from a knee injury and is looking forward to taking on one of the best sides in the world in just three days’ time.
“I can’t wait to get out there,” said Akhtar. “Training has gone well, and I feel strong. My knee has reacted well, and I can’t wait to take on the Australians. I believe we can win this Series.
“My bowling is getting better with each practice session. This is a great opportunity for Pakistan to test themselves against one of the best sides in the world, and we are expecting massive support to make us feel at home in the UAE,” he added.
Akhtar has played only a handful of Tests and one-day internationals since February 2006 because of fitness issues, but he bowled a full nine overs during a practice match against Pakistan last week and has since trained well in Dubai.
The first one-day international to ever take place in Dubai will be played on Wednesday, 22 April 2009 to launch the new venues, with the second match also there on Friday, 24 April.
The Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi will then host the teams for the last three one-day internationals, Monday, 27 April, Friday, 1 May and, Sunday, 3 May.
The Chapal Cup Series is then completed with a spectacular one-off Twenty20 match at Dubai Sports City’s Cricket Stadium on Thursday, 7 May.
Tickets are still available through the Sind Punjab restaurant in Dubai, Pak Ghazi restaurant in Dubai and Sharjah, Uttam Restaurant in Sharjah, A.J. Sports in Dubai and Sharjah, Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Dubai Sports City and all UAE branches of Karachi Darbar.
Cricket mad fans can also get tickets from the following outlets in Abu Dhabi: all Ibrahimi restaurants, Murree Sweets, Pak Nemat Kada, Pak Land Food Stuff, United Bank, Al Mansoor Video, Ahmed Al Arab restaurant and Malex Exchange.
