Akhtar hopeful for England tour

Shoaib Akhtar will under-go a fitness examination later this month to determine his availability for Pakistan’s tour of England beginning in July.

Akhtar has been out of all cricket since February following a knee operation, along with under going rehabilitation for a stress fracture of the back.

Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq is confident Akhtar will soon be back to full fitness, and is hopeful he will be able to lead a full strength seam attack against England.

Akhtar was a crucial component of Pakistan’s 2-0 series win over England in Pakistan last year where he took 17 wickets at an average of 24.82.

Pakistan play four Tests and five one-day internationals against England beginning on 13th July when the 1st Test begins at Lord’s.