Outspoken Shoaib Akhtar speaks up on Fawad Alam issue

Pakistan record breaking fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has spoken up on the issue of middle order batsman Fawad Alam’s exclusion from the squad, as he said that skipper Sarfraz Ahmed would have not asked for Alam’s services.

"Without the consent of the captain, how can Alam have not been selected? I am sure the skipper did not ask for Alam," said Akhtar, while talking to local media. Alam's non-selection for the upcoming tour of England and Ireland has sparked a debate among cricket fans, while many are holding chief selector Inzamam-ul-Haq responsible for not selecting him.

"In regards to Alam, the decision was by selectors, captain and coach and it's wrong to say that one of them took that decision," he added.

In regards to the upcoming tour, Akhtar said it would be tough for the young Pakistan side, more so due to seaming conditions offered. However, the team will need to step up and ‘fight.’

“The tour of England will be tough but the Test match against Ireland will be tougher as we will face a seaming track. The players will have to grab this opportunity and not say that this is a new team and we find it hard to fight etc. The attitude has to be there to stay on the crease."

Pakistan will play against Ireland, which will be their first-ever Test against Pakistan from May 11 to May 15 in Dublin. Pakistan will then play two Tests against England at Lord’s from May 24 to May 28 and Headingley from June 1 to June 5.