July 04, 2007	Wednesday	Jamadi-us-Sani 18, 1428

GLASGOW, July 3: While fully determined to start afresh, Pakistan’s whirlwind pacer Shoaib Akhtar thinks that he has been misunderstand throughout his ten-year international career laced with dramatic news, both on and off the field.

Talking to The Telegraph the man, often referred to as ‘Rawalpindi Express’ due to his fearsome speed, recalls that October-November last year was the worst period for him, the time when he failed a drugs test carried out by the PCB and had to be called back from India where Pakistan were about to start their ICC Champions Trophy campaign.

“My own countrymen shunned me, with some even refusing to look at me. It was a terrible period. Everybody’s body mechanism isn’t same and certain levels are higher in my body compared to others.

“My hormone level fluctuates. I didn’t take drugs to enhance my performance. I don’t need to. I don’t know why I was treated so badly. The test didn’t show I was an evil person. I’ve always been misunderstood. I’ve never seen myself bigger than the game,” Shoaib, 31, said.

Asked long before the doping controversy, his action was deemed suspect, Shoaib replied the controversy made him tougher.

“Yes. Even that was a terrible period and it really hurt me. The first time, in 1999-2000, was awful. I’m always going to be thankful to Mr Jagmohan Dalmiya, the then ICC president, for his support. But, as I said, every controversy has made me a better and stronger person. I may have felt gutted, but the controversies haven’t killed my josh and desire to play for Pakistan.”

“I’m not jealous about anybody or anything. I’m most happy when Mohammad Asif does well, when a Brett Lee or a Shane Bond turns in fiery performance. I’ve never felt insecure. Whoever captain, has to understand psyche of a fast bowler.”

On whether he had fundamental differences with late Bob Woolmer, the 43-Test veteran said it took some time for both to know each other.

“It took me a year to understand Bob. It probably took him quite a bit of time to understand me as well and realise that match-winners are rare and need to be looked after. We did have differences, but I didn’t misbehave.

“I admit to a big argument with him in South Africa earlier this year, when he suspected I was faking a hamstring injury. I exploded, for he had no business doubting my integrity and patriotism. Next day, Bob apologised as he was misinformed of my injury.

“His death left me stunned. What’s worse is his body remained in Kingston for weeks and weeks. Such indignity.”

On the subject of his support to Shoaib Malik, the newly appointed national skipper, the 100-mph man said he even backed Salman Butt, Malik’s deputy.

“Of course (I back Malik). He doesn’t speak too much. I’m confident he’ll do well. Even the new vice-captain, Salman, has my support. Today, I’m working towards bowling in excess of 100 mph. Obsession or not, I’m going to achieve it.

Asked if he was more up for it (100-mph mark) when Sachin Tendulkar was in the opposition?

Shoaib said: “No. Opposition doesn’t matter. Sachin is a good batsman and humble person. At the same time, I haven’t forgotten he once called me a chucker. I had to restrain myself. Virender Sehwag said the same thing and, today, he’s been chucked out of the team.”—Agencies