Inzy worried for Shoaib, says pacer's career under jeopardy

Lahore, Feb 27 (UNI) Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul Haq has expressed concern over Shoaib Akhtar's career threatening knee injury, saying the pacer might never get back his rhythm even after recovering completely.

''He came to see me before leaving for Australia,'' Inzamam told 'The News'.

''Shoaib was quite disturbed about his situation. His knees are troubling him and his immediate return to the team is not possible,'' he added.

Shoaib, who is due to meet an orthopaedic surgeon in Melbourne today, was diagnosed with a degenerative disease in his right knee during a regular medical check up and is sure to remain out of action for at least two months.

The speedster might require surgery on one or both his knees depending on what the doctors find out during the examination.

Inzamam is worried that Shoaib might go the Saqlain Mushtaq way, who could never get back into the groove after his knees were operated upon some years ago.

The offspinner recently signed up to play for Ireland after being dumped from the national squad following a spate of poor performances in the matches he played after returning to the team.

UNI XC PM YA HS1132