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Rediff.com  » Sports » Shoaib out on disciplinary grounds

Shoaib out on disciplinary grounds

May 06, 2005 18:15 IST
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Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq has said that Shoaib Akhtar was left out of the Pakistan squad for the tour of West Indies on disciplinary grounds. The Pakistan Cricket Board had cited that Shoaib had not recovered completely from the hamstring injury while omitting him from the squad.

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"Shoaib has disciplinary problems and I believe no player is bigger than the team," Inzamam was quoted as saying by Pakistan daily The News.

"We've had these problems with him in the past and my concern is that it has a negative impact on other players also." Akhtar has been questioned several times in the past for his off-field activities and his approach towards the game.

Inzamam also said that the team would not miss the services of Akhtar. The team has been depleted of fast bowlers as Mohammed Sami is also down with a heel injury.

"What I learnt in India was that when every player contributes and you play strictly as a team, the absence of even the best player is not felt. In the West Indies to be successful we've to again play as a team and with spirit to do well. The strength of our bowling attack is not such a big issue."

Pakistan, who have never won a series in the West Indies, will play three one-day internationals and two Tests in the Caribbean.

Inzamam is not available for the first Test as he is serving one-match ban for showing dissent in the third Test against India in Bangalore.

Younis Khan will lead the side in his absence.

"Even if I'm not playing I'll be there involved in everything and the planning. As far as Younis Khan's ability to lead the side is concerned, he is a good future prospect and will be an asset for the team in future," said Inzamam.

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