"Today's kids believe that they know a lot (about cricket) and they can challenge my bowling speed as well. So, kids I am coming back to play and I will show you what speed really is. I too will play league (cricket) so beware," Akhtar said.
Akhtar's former Pakistan teammates Wasim Akram and Shoaib Malik were very excited about the speedster's comeback.Hello 14th February is the date, mark your calendars guys. Main bhi araha hun iss baar league khelnay.. Aakhir inn bachon ko bhi pata chalay kay tezi hoti kia hai! #shoaibisback #Pakistan pic.twitter.com/AbVDo7BPUB
— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) February 11, 2019
Shaibi.. Is this actually happening? You’re coming back? The kids these days could use some of your tezi. #shoaibisback https://t.co/J4OQuLZ5Am
— Wasim Akram (@wasimakramlive) February 12, 2019
About time Shoaib bhai! Come show us all what tezi is all about. Can’t wait to see our legend back in action #Shoaibisback https://t.co/W21g1f047X
— Shoaib Malik 🇵🇰 (@realshoaibmalik) February 12, 2019
Like Wasim Akram, the widely known Pakistani fast bowler Mohammad Amir was well surprised. But Amir's tweet had much more excitement to express than shock.
To give a gist of Amir's tweet, he has addressed the ex speedster to bless them with his presence in the PSL. "We miss your speed a lot and we need you, Sir. Come join us and flourish!" It is for sure that Akhtar will make an appearance in PSL 4.
Shoaib Akhtar played his last international match in the 2011 World Cup against New Zealand. He picked up 178 wickets in Tests, 247 wickets in ODIs and 44 wickets in T20s. The 43-year-old played his last professional match in the St. Moritz Ice Cricket in February last year.Sirrrr... Aap ki tezi ko Hum sab bohat miss karte hain.. We need you!! Aajaaen Aur chhaa jaaen!! #Shoaibisback @shoaib100mph https://t.co/tuaf1K5FRN
— Mohammad Amir (@iamamirofficial) February 12, 2019
Since his retirement from international cricket, Akhtar has had stints as a commentator and a cricket expert. It will be interesting to see if Akhtar can bowl with the same bite as before.