KARACHI: Former Pakistan Test cricketer Shoaib Akhar thanked his supporters for their prayers as the legendary fast bowler underwent knee surgery in Australia and admitted representing his country was worth it.
Akhtar, popularly known as ‘Rawalpindi Express’ for his ferocious pace, in a video posted on his official Twitter account, shared a message for his fans from his hospital bed after his partial knee replacement operation.
“Again, I want to say this, even in this condition, that it was worth playing for Pakistan, it was worth it,” he said in the video.
“If I have to go through all this pain again for Pakistan, I would love to and I wouldn’t hesitate for a second,” he added.
Alhamdolillah, the surgery went well. He will take some time to recover. I need his prayers. A special thanks to @13kamilkhan besides, he is a true friend who takes care of me here in Melbourne. pic.twitter.com/jCuXV7Qqxv
— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) August 6, 2022
Akhtar, 46, who has represented Pakistan in 46 Tests and 163 ODIs, has already undergone five similar surgeries in the past and hopes this will possibly be his last.
The sprinter also expressed his gratitude to his fans and urged them to pray for him and the country.
“I’m fine. Obviously in pain but fine. Keep praying for me and pray for Pakitan,” he told his followers.
It is timely to mention here that Akhtar holds the record for the fastest delivery in cricket history – 161 km/h, while also taking 444 international wickets during his brilliant career.
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