Shoaib Akhtar

Shoaib Akhtar is a Pakistani former cricketer who is regarded as one of the fastest bowlers in modern cricket. He made his Test debut in November 1997 and played his first One Day International four months later. He played on Pakistan's Cricket Team as an attacking fast bowler.

He has been involved in several controversies during his career, often accused of not being a team player but his presence was always felt by the opponents. Akhtar was sent home during the Test match series in Australia in 2005 for alleged poor attitude. A year later, he was embroiled in a drug scandal after testing positive to a banned substance. However, the ban imposed on him was lifted on court appeal.

In September 2007, Akhtar was banned for an indefinite period for his fight with Pakistan team mate and fast bowler Mohammad Asif. On 1 April 2008, Akhtar was banned for five years for publicly criticizing the Pakistan Cricket Board.

In October 2008, the Lahore High Court in Pakistan suspended the five-year ban and Akhtar was selected in the 15-man squad for the Twenty20 Quadrangular Tournament in Canada. Pakistani judge Rana Bhagwandas once stated that Akhtar is a legend of Pakistan cricket. Akhtar retired from international cricket after the 2011 World Cup.
Full name Shoaib Akhtar
Born 13 August 1975 (age 38) Rawalpindi, Punjab, Pakistan
Nickname Rawalpindi Express
Height 5 ft 11.75 in (1.82 m)
Batting style Right hand bat
Bowling style Right arm fast
Role Bowler
National side Pakistan
Test debut (cap 150) 29 November 1997 v West Indies
Last Test 8 December 2007 v India
ODI debut (cap 123) 28 March 1998 v Zimbabwe
Last ODI 8 March 2011 v New Zealand
ODI shirt no. 14