Shoaib returns to the fold - PCB proves itself to be incompetent

Shoaib Akhtar is now back in the scheme of things. He is being sent as a cover for Umar Gul. From what I have heard, Gul's injury is not that serious. At worst, he will miss the first test match. Sami, Rana and Nazir seem fit, and will probably play the first test. I doubt Shoaib will play in the first game. Firstly he probably just arrived from the flight, and secondly he is being sent as a cover, so the selectors probably feel Sami, Rana and Nazir are better than Shoaib at this point in time.

What's amusing is the PCB's sudden change of opinion. Previously they claimed...

Iqbal Qasim, a member of the selection committee, told Cricinfo, "Shoaib has been left out because we felt his full match fitness hasn't yet returned after the break he has had from the game."

Less than a week later, according to PCB.com.pk...

"Akhtar has proved his fitness in the first class match and on the team management demand for a replacement, Akhtar and Shabbir Ahmed's names were considered and Akhtar was a more suitable choice," Bari said.

What a joke! If all it took was 1 practice match to regain 'fitness', why couldn't Shoaib have played the rest of South Africa team in their first tour match? Its not like Sami or Rana actually did anything useful in that game. As a matter of fact, we threw everything but the kitchen sink at them. 7 of our bowlers bowled and we barely got a 100 run lead against a 2nd string South African batting lineup.

And while we are on the subject, just what in the world encompasses a fitness test?

Just like the KingCricket blog has its Top 10, I need to implement my bottom 10. The confused clowns at the helm of the PCB would highlight my list.