Younis urges media to leave Shoaib alone

Lahore, Jul 7 (UNI) Senior Pakistan batsman Younis Khan has urged the media to allow Shoaib Akhtar some much needed privacy which will help the temparamental speedster stage a successful comeback to the national squad.

''Shoaib is a match winner and I have spent a lot of time with him ... he is like a kid who needs attention all the time ... he is in need of extra care,'' Younis said.

''Fast bowlers are passionate people ... more passionate than the normal players. But it would be better if the media gave them some room and they should not be given the coverage they get ...

they need to be supported and encouraged,'' he added.

The 'Rawalpindi Express' is battling to regain his place in the Pakistan team after the 18 month ban imposed on him by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) appointed appelate tribunal was suspended by the Lahore High Court.

His every move is being tracked by the media and Younis felt that this is doing Akhtar more harm than good.

The 30-year-old right-hand batsman also observed that both Akhtar and Mohammed Asif need to work on their fitness.

''Akhtar and Asif are both very talented fast bowlers. They would need to concentrate on their fitness to live upto their potential,'' Younis stated.

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