Is Shoaib coming or going?

The injury news surrounding Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar continues to change by the day with news that he’s now unlikely to play until the fourth Test.

Pakistan coach Bob Woolmer told reporters that the medical panel and Pakistan selectors are taking it easy with Akhtar given the serious nature of his injury, and the fact that he has been out of all cricket for a great deal of time.

The plan with Akhtar’s comeback is to play a series of matches in the local league to judge his injury and match fitness, but that wouldn’t be for at least another 14 days according to Woolmer.

Akhtar himself says he is listening 100% to his trainers and won’t be returning to the side until he is given the go ahead from his medical panel.

After recording an easy seven wicket win over Northampthonshire yesterday, the Pakistan squad are now in preparation for the second Test starting at Old Trafford on 27th July.