Slim chance of Akhtar returning to international cricket: Butt

Karachi, Nov.20 (ANI): Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ijaz Butt has said there is slim possibility of controversial fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar returning to international cricket.

"Shoaib is already 34, and with a history of fitness problems, is unlikely to make a comeback," a website reported Butt as saying in response to a query whether the recent liposuction surgery would enhance the right-arm pacer's changes of a comeback for the forthcoming Australia tour.

"Pakistan have a number of young fast bowlers to choose from and that makes Shoaib's chances of a comeback very remote," the website quoted Butt, as saying.

However, Butt has denied giving any such statement.

Interacting with media persons at Lahore Airport, the PCB chairman said he never gave any statement regarding Akhtar's future.

The PCB is miffed with Akhtar's fat removing surgery, which he had just after returning from London following knee surgery.

While neither Akhtar nor his family members are saying anything regarding the operation, a PCB official said being on the board's central contract, the fast bowler should have informed it about the surgery.

"He is a centrally contracted player and he is supposed to consult our medical panel and inform us before undergoing any medical treatment, but he didn't do this before opting for the liposuction," the official said.

It will take Akhtar, 34, another three to four months to regain full fitness and play competitive cricket. (ANI)