Akhtar sent home from World Cup

Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has been sent home from the Twenty20 World Cup following a bust-up with team-mate Mohammad Asif.

Pakistan chief executive Shafqat Nagmi said in a media announcement that “A decision has been taken to call back Shoaib after an initial inquiry. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) fully endorses this decision. Shoaib Akhtar will be returning on the first available flight.”

Nagmi went onto say “No one will be spared if he flouts the rules and team spirit. What has happened is something that has shocked us.”

Rumours of Asif being struck by a bat by Akhtar are so far unfounded, but Akhtar has admitted to hitting Asif during a row in Thursday’s training session.

Following this decision to send Akhtar home, his future with the national team could be under threat following the controversy that continues to follow him.