Shoaib Akhtar says that Pakistan’s tour match performance should be a wake-up call

Former Pakistani pacer, Shoaib Akhtar said that how the team performs in the three-day game before the Test series against the West Indies should be treated as a reality check and a lesson to learn from.  He also went on to question the selection committee, saying he found their selection confusing.

The Rawalpindi express said that he understands his team will play the longest format after a long time, but the professional players should not make that an excuse.

Speaking on Geo.tv he said, “I agree that Pakistan will be playing Test matches after a long gap, after Australia series, but there shouldn’t be any excuses by professional players. Three-day game’s performance should be a wake-up call for Pakistan ahead of the Test series, I hope they will learn and improve from here.”

He also added that with experienced players like Younis Khan and Misbah-ul-Haq in the middle, the team should be strong in its middle order.

The former quick also opinionated that Pakistan Cricket Board must make the most of  Younis Khan’s experience even after his retirement.

“Younis Khan, with 34 Test centuries, is your real star. He’s built to work for cricket and PCB should utilise his experience even after his retirement,” he said.

He also had something to say to Misbah and Younis. He feels they can put curtains on their career on a high. He expressed a wish to see double tons from the duo in their last series.

“Misbah and Younis should end careers on a high note; I would love to see them score double centuries in the last series. PCB should recognise their services. I wish both of them best of luck, you have then a lot of good.” These two has arguably been the greatest ambassadors of Pakistan cricket and deserves a huge round of applause for their achievements.

The 41-year old played his last Test at Chinnaswamy Stadium against India in 2007.