Twenty20 has affected technique of Pak players: Shoaib Akhtar

Islamabad, June 24 (ANI): Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar believes Twenty20 cricket has damaged Pakistan cricketers immensely, affecting their technique and fitness.

"I think T20 cricket has not been good for our players and their techniques have been affected negatively and too much of T20 cricket is also posing fitness issues for them," the Daily Times quoted Akhtar, as saying.

"I know there is lot of money involved for players in the shorter form but I would advise them to focus on One-Day and Tests because that is the real test for a cricketer and it improves his fitness and techniques," he added.

Akhtar said he was saddened by the recent life ban imposed on Danish Kaneria by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the involvement of Pakistani players in spot-fixing scandals.

"Had we not lost Mohammad Amir and Mohammad Asif to the spot-fixing scandal, we could have won the 2011 World Cup. I always say greed leads to a person's downfall," he said.

He hoped the recent spot-fixing incidents would teach younger players that there are no short cuts to fame or money.

"This comes from hard work and dedication and players must realise that there is no greater honour than playing for your country and doing well for it," Akhtar added. (ANI)