Akmal vows to come back with a bang

Wicket-keeper Kamran Akmal vows to make international comeback, insists he is fit to play in Quaid-i-Azam Trophy.

LAHORE: Pakistan’s regular wicket-keeper Kamran Akmal has vowed to make a successful comeback in international cricket, insisting that he is fit to play the second round of the ongoing Quaid-i-Azam Trophy.

Akmal was omitted from all three squads for the series against South Africa after a minor surgery and the recovery that followed.

“I was recommended rest before resuming my cricket and I’m more than hopeful that I will be impressive on my comeback,” Akmal told The Express Tribune. “I have completed my rehabilitation period and will play the second round of the trophy.”

Earlier this month, ahead of the National Twenty20 Cup, the 28-year-old underwent a successful appendicitis operation. Following the surgery, he was asked to rest for three weeks which ended his chances of taking part in the UAE series.

“It’s actually good to have some time-out from international cricket for a while but I have retained my fitness and have already started practicing at the National Cricket Academy. I’m ready to regain my place in the national team. Although playing the World Cup is everyone’s primary objective but for now I’m eyeing the New Zealand tour to make a strong comeback that will also help me in the preparation for the World Cup.”

The selectors dropped Akmal for the third Test against England after a poor show but he was back in the team after just one Test owing injury to his replacement Zulqarnain Haider.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 27^th, 2010.