April 02, 2008	Wednesday	Rabi-ul-Awwal 24, 1429

ISLAMABAD, April 1: Pakistan paceman Shoaib Akhtar said on Tuesday he will fight the five-year ban imposed on him by the PCB for violating the players’ code of conduct.

“I am deeply disappointed and hurt. I will go to court and fight against the ban,” Shoaib said minutes after a disciplinary committee imposed the ban.

“I was demoted from central contract ‘A’ category, which was very hurtful and as a reaction I said something. I have apologised to the PCB, before the disciplinary committee and before everyone,” Shoaib said.

“So I thought that they would take a lenient action, but this harsh decision has effectively ended my career. I still want to play for my country,” he said. “I have always given 100 percent for the national team. How can they accuse me of being a damaging influence on the team?”

Shoaib refused to accept (PCB chief) Dr Nasim Ashraf’s claims that he was a negative influence on the team.

“Ask the captain (Shoaib Malik), ask coach Geoff Lawson and they would vouch for me. I had played with high fever on the India tour (last year), which proved my commitment for the team,” Shoaib said.

“I bowl fast so I am prone to injuries, but I have given my heart, soul and body to this team. I know some vested interest did not want me to be the part of the team, but I will be back.”

“I have had problems here and there but I have always respected my seniors and got along well with my juniors.

“For me, nothing is more important than playing for Pakistan. It is hard to bear with this stigma attached to me.”

The fast bowler will address a press conference on Wednesday. —Agencies