Shoaib prefers cricket to acting in movies

KARACHI: Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar Sunday dispelled the impression he is keen to join Indian movies and quit cricket, saying he intends to play cricket as long as he is performing.

"I want to play cricket and just showing a little interest in films doesn't mean I am leaving the game,"

Shoaib Akhtar, speaking for the first time since last month's tour of India, told media.

"I stayed back in India for two weeks, not for films but to help raise funds for an organisation called India Charity and no one should question my integrity and commitment for the team."

Akhtar said he was ready to play against Zimbabwe in the five-match series starting next week, however the selectors had different ideas and later Sunday axed him from the list of 21 in the initial squad, saying he has to prove his fitness by playing in domestic matches.

The 32-year-old fast bowler was criticised for his off-field activities on the tour of India where Pakistan lost the one-day series 2-3 and Tests 0-1.

"I have always played for the country and yet people question my commitment. I agree I am more prone to injuries than others but it's because I bowl fast and try hard, and even team officials can vouch for that."

Pakistan coach Geoff Lawson defended Akhtar, although that clearly did little to save the bowler from the chop later Sunday from the squad for Zimbabwe.

"I never felt let down by Akhtar. He concentrated hard and when fit he was the bowler most likely taking wickets for us. Unfortunately, he fell ill and then unfit but he was our best bowler and, if fit, we want him against Australia,"

Lawson said on Friday.