Akhtar says he is bad news for Hussain’s team

KARACHI, May 07: Fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar warned Nasser Hussain's team to prepare for some "bad news" as he flew out from Pakistan to join his teammates in England on Monday.

"I am sure it is a bad news for the English team."

Shoaib, one of the fastest as well as one of the most controversial bowlers in the world and dubbed the "Rawalpindi Express", failed to fly out with the rest of the 17-man squad last week after failing a medical. However, he was given permission to travel by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) panel of doctors on Saturday.

"Shoaib left Lahore for England on Monday morning and in all probability will be available for the second tour match," director of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Munawwar Rana revealed.

The 25-year-old, who has taken 45 wickets in 15 tests, will be challenging Wasim Akram and Mohammad Sami for a place alongside captain Waqar Younis in the Pakistan pace attack.

Shoaib, who had not played in a competitive game since February 28, appeared in a club match on Friday but failed to take a wicket in six overs costing 20 runs.

He seemed unconcerned, however, adding: "I think this tour will help me put my cricket back on track.

"I think I will be more aggressive and fearsome because I will be trying to make up for the lost time."