Speed in his Blood: Shoaib Unplugged

 

 

You have just finished a competitive series against India. Has the atmosphere been any different than what you would expect in Pakistan? Playing in Pakistan is very different because you’re playing on your own soil. It is a different feeling altogether and is a great pleasure. India, of course, is very special to me. I’ve always enjoyed playing here. It’s really great to come here because I’ve always been loved by the people.

What makes Shoaib Akhtar what he is today? Strength, talent or passion?

It is a combination of all. I’m very passionate about whatever I do and it is strength, talent and passion that, I feel, complete me.

What inspired you to pursue a career in cricket?

Well, to be frank it just happened. I wasn’t very keen and had never planned to make a career in cricket. It was only in my college days that I started playing and taking interest in cricket. Sometimes, you know, you get caught in the wrong job. (laughs) I slowly picked up the game and have become what I am today.

How supportive was your family?

My family was very supportive. Had I studied, it would have been much more easy (smiles). But my family never pushed me into anything. They just told me to put my heart in whatever I do.

Did you always play cricket with the attitude of becoming the fastest bowler?

Oh yes! Always!!

How was Shoaib as a child? Did you often get yourself in trouble?

Oh no, I was never a trouble maker. Trouble always came to me! Others create problems, and unfortunately I get trapped (laughs).

After Imran Khan and Wasim Akram you have been very popular with the female fans. Is Shoaib or Shoaib’s game to be credited for that? Have you always received adulation from women?

It’s of course my game. There isn’t anything special about me. All I do is throw the ball very fast and guess, that fascinates women! I had never been popular among women, I think that proves that it’s my game which is to be credited for the fan following. Controversies are likely in all sports and in cricket, Shoaib Akhtar has been a quite controversial name. Is it temper or sheer passion and involvement that makes you cross the line?

I agree controversies are likely in all sports. But you wouldn’t be able to name too many from Pakistan’s cricket team who haven’t been involved in controversy, so why just me?

Our readers would like to know your say about the steroid case.

I was really surprised when charges of consuming steroids were levelled against me. I didn’t use any performance enhancement drugs. I was already doing well and by using performance enhancement drugs, I doubt if I would have been able to take more wickets. It makes more sense with Olympic players. I feel there isn’t any awareness about drugs and steroids, which the cricket board should work on. We don’t know which drugs are banned.

And if certain drugs are banned, then why are they still available in the market? The awareness of drugs and steroids is very important.

And also about the issue with Mohammed Asif…

There are times when you get frustrated and vent it out on those whom you live with. There are times when you have fights with your family which might get out of hand. Some people remain silent to calm their anger, but at times I lose my cool when I’m frustrated. With Asif, it was one such unfortunate situation. I did apologise to him. But what angered me was that this issue was leaked and blown out of proportion. And I feel that the 13 match ban on me was harsh.

You are the fastest bowler in the world and on a good day can run through any batting lineup. But critics say that you haven’t done that often enough. What do you have to say to that?

I am someone who can get any batsman out, but it cannot happen everyday. Even the batsmen do not score every time. There are good days and there are bad days. All I do is go out there and put in my heart to do my best. The rest is up to God. Who according to you is the toughest batsman to get out?

No one is tough. It depends on how well one does on that day. On a bad day, even the tail-enders seem heavy.

You have played against India when Sourav was captain, when Dhoni was leading and now with Kumble as the skipper. What difference have you noticed in their approach and in their strategies?

India has never been an aggressive side. At times it has surprised me to see India not put the opponents under pressure. Had I been the captain, I would have put the opposition under pressure all the time. Among those whom I have seen, I think Dhoni is one guy I would like to praise. He is an intelligent cricketer and a player who knows his limitations. Moreover, he is very down to earth. He has all the qualities to become a great cricketer and surely deserves all the glory.

One of the attributes associated with a fast bowler is aggression. But do you think too much aggression can prove to be adverse for one’s career? What do you have to say to youngsters like Sreesanth, who seem overly aggressive at times?

Aggression is very important in a game like this. One cannot have a laid back attitude, especially if you have to win. You can’t remain on the back foot all the time and not move ahead just because of the fear of losing. Sreesanth is good. He’s young and will slowly learn to limit his aggression. It cannot be taught. He has a long career ahead and with time he will grow mature.

Pakistan has always been a very strong bowling side. But lately this is one area where Pakistan seems to be suffering the most. Do you think cricket is declining in Pakistan?

Pakistan has always produced fast bowlers and will continue to do so. I don’t know how many people would agree that cricket is right now declining in Pakistan. Although, it isn’t as famous as it used to be. The systems have to be in place and much more has to be invested in the cricket academies. Only if we concentrate on cricket from the grassroot level, will we produce good players and bring the World Cup to Pakistan. Who has been your role model and source of motivation?

Imran. He has criticised me, praised me and taught me a lot. He has always been there for me and I really respect him.

Injuries have always been an issue with fast bowlers. How dedicated are you towards your work-outs to keep up your fitness? What is the story behind ‘the little tiger’?

Fitness is very important. I don’t have much to say about my work outs…(smiles). ‘The little tiger’ is a toy that I carry all the time, even to the gym. I’ve loved toys since childhood and have always been fascinated by leopards and tigers. One day I will keep a real tiger cub in my farmhouse.

You recently interacted with special children on Children’s day. We have also heard of your plans of adopting a child. What pulls you towards adoption?

I love children! And yes, I have plans of adopting a child someday. One should not always do things for benefit. I would like to help a child and give him the best of life.

What is your most prized possession and your most cherished relationship?

My memories are my most prized possessions. And I share the best relationship with my mother and sister.

Which performance/tour of yours do you cherish the most?

I can never forget the ’99 World Cup semi finals.

If you had to select a team of players from the world’s cricket teams, which five players would you definitely opt for?

Wasim, Waqar, Lara, Gilchrist and of course Imran as the captain.

Do you regularly watch Bollywood movies? Are there any plans of acting in movies in the future?

I’m not a regular at anything (smiles). The last movie I watched was Dil Chahta Hai. I’ve got offers but I don’t have any concrete plans as such. I

haven’t decided anything about it, but might consider…

If you ever act in a movie, whom would you want to be cast with?

Ten good heroines! (laughs)

If you had to pick up a movie character that best represents Shoaib, which would it be?

I don’t know how to answer this question. I have different images with those who know me and with the media, like I’m a bad boy with the media… So I really don’t know which character to pick.

Tell us about your dream date.

My dream date would be with my motorbike. I love speed and a lady cannot provide the thrust that a bike can! I feel free on my bike which I don’t with a lady around (laughs). I’m kidding…I just love riding a bike and yes, I ride safely.

What milestone do you aim for before you retire?

Nothing. But I’m not done yet. I don’t make plans but take things as they come and give my best, every time.

What would be your message to the Indian Team for the Australia tour?

I would say that they go with a positive attitude. Be aggressive and don’t go with the idea that Australia is the best team in the world. India has beaten Australia before and good luck to make that happen again.