KARACHI, Aug 19: Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar said on Tuesday he has improved after a stint with English county Durham and the national side is set to reap the benefit.

“It’s hell of an experience and I now feel I am a improved bowler and can serve the country in a better way,” Shoaib declared on the eve of the first Test against Bangladesh.

The 27-year-old, known as the Rawalpindi Express, started his first English county stint with Durham in May.

He was initially allowed to skip the home series against Bangladesh to continue his county assignment. However, an injury to fellow pace bowler Mohammad Sami forced the Pakistan selectors to summon Shoaib for the series.

Shoaib will play the first two Tests against Bangladesh before returning to England.

“I am enjoying county cricket and now my length is a yard further, just like Australian Glenn McGrath and now I am more for length than speed,” said Shoaib, who has twice achieved the unique feat of crossing the 100 mile an hour barrier..

“I have taken some 35 wickets in seven matches and want to return for another few matches to help the county gain promotion in the first division,” said Shoaib, who has taken 88 Test and 145 one-day wickets.—AFP