Shoaib Akhtar praises Wahab Riaz's decision to return to Test cricket

Pakistan’s legendary former pacer Shoaib Akhtar, in a tweet, praised fast-bowler Wahab Riaz’s decision to return to Test cricket after the latter expressed his willingness to play the longest format in the upcoming series against England.

The 34-year-old had taken an indefinite break from first-class cricket last year in September to focus on limited-overs cricket. This move had sparked conversations of his retirement from the format. However, the fast-bowler is now part of Pakistan’s extended squad for the tour of England and is likely to feature in the Test side.

The Rawalpindi Express, in a tweet on Tuesday, appreciated Wahab’s decision while claiming that the pacer would do well in English conditions.

"Really appreciate your decision Wahab Riaz to make yourself available for Test cricket. Keeping Pakistan first. You will do well in English conditions InshAllah," Akhtar tweeted.

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Wahab, while responding to Akhtar’s tweet, thanked the legendary fast-bowler for his kind words.

"Means a lot coming from you chief," Wahab tweeted.

Meanwhile, the 34-year-old is eager to return to the Test side and hopeful of delivering a good performance.

“I am looking forward to performing well against England in the upcoming series. The tour is happening under unique circumstances. I could not say no when the PCB approached me regarding my availability for the Test side. I will be ready to play in the future as well if needed,” said Riaz.

Pakistan is scheduled to take on England in three Tests and three Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is), with the matches likely to take place between August 5 and September 1 in Manchester and Southampton.

The PCB and England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB)’s top officials have already discussed the logistical plans for the tour and the schedule will be officially announced next week. 

An extended squad, 29-member, including white-ball specialists, is being sent to England as the players, in accordance with series SOPs in the wake of Covid-19, will remain in England from start to finish.