It was one of the finest pieces of fast bowling, when Shoaib Akthar ran through several batting line-ups in the 1999 World Cup. His extensive run-up and stiff action were not the attributes of a generic fast bowler. Right from the start, he has topped the headlines of several newspapers in Pakistan, either for his on-field performances or off-field controversies.

His blistering speed has been his main weapon against his opponents. He has used it effectively against several batsmen. However, his pursuit for breaking the 100-miles speed barrier ruined his chances of cementing his place and lead to several injuries. He was banned for two years after testing positive for using Nandralone, however, was reprieved upon his appeal. After the doping saga, he couldn’t be a part of the national squad on a permanent basis, due to various reasons.

Shoaib Akthar’s exclusion from the probable list for the Champions Trophy is a clear indication that the selectors are looking forward to a group of youngsters, who would form the core of the Pakistan team in the 2011 World Cup. Though his career is virtually over, there is a remote chance of a recall, if he improves his fitness and performs at his best in the county matches.