Shoaib Akhtar roped in by Lahore Qalandars as mentor

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has been roped in as a mentor by Lahore Qalandars in the Pakistan Super League. Akhtar, who has been an asset for Pakistan cricket has been signed in to work with the young fast bowlers in the squad. He will be working closely along with Aaqib Javed, another former fast bowler from Pakistan, who is also the franchise director.

Last year, Qalandars stormed into the newspapers after they signed in Yasir Jan, a skillful fast bowler, who can bowl with his both arms, in a 10-year contract. In 2017, they have repeated a similar approach by getting on board another quick bowler Haris Rauf, in a 10-year contract.

“I’m honored and privileged to be a part of Qalandars,” Akhtar said. “Extremely excited and thrilled. Haris is from Pindi and he is the find of Aaqib Javed. Aaqib knows a talent when he sees one.”

Akhtar on Pakistan pacers

Akhtar recently spoke about the Pakistan pacers and the challenges of playing away from home. “I think they missed the confidence level of playing in front of your own people. The support is unequalled. Till now, the UAE hosted home games for Pakistan and we are thankful, but many young cricketers missed the adrenaline rush and the pride of reaching milestones at home. As international cricketers and celebrities we feel welcome everywhere, but playing at home offers a different kind of serenity.” he told Spoststar.

“Not many cricketers have entered the team since 2009 (when Pakistan last hosted a Test match against Sri Lanka, which was disrupted by a terror attack). Many careers started and ended in these eight years. Home games could have increased their confidence and ability, and perhaps, prolong their careers.” he added

Akhtar had earlier supported the Independence Cup, a series between Pakistan and World XI, which saw cricket back in Pakistan after a long wait.