PCB refuses to fund Shoaib Akhtar's knee surgery in England India News and Travel Times Provides India-centric and other News and Features

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has said that fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar had approached them to fund his knee surgery in England, but the former refused to bear this expense. According to reports, Shoaib plans to undergo the surgery under the supervision of famous orthopedic surgeon Andy Williams in England on October 8. "Shoaib had sent a copy of the medial recommendation which says he requires surgery for a chronic knee problem to the board. He wanted the board to pay for his expenses. But PCB chairman Ijaz Butt has so far not taken any decision on the report sent by Shoaib" The Daily News quoted a PCB spokesman, as saying. "There is a clause in the central contract that clearly states that players can only be provided medical treatment by the board when they sustain injuries while playing for the country. Since Shoaib has not played for a while for Pakistan, we can't cover his medical treatment," he added. Shoaib hasn't played much for Pakistan for the past two and half years due to fitness and disciplinary issues. Shoaib, who has taken 178 Test and 223 one-day international wickets, was playing in domestic tournaments in a bid to get back into the national team. However, KRL (domestic team) skipper Mohammad Wasim wasn't too optimistic about his fitness. "It's a long standing injury that he has been carrying for a while and I have no idea how long he will be out for. I believe the operation will be carried out in England on October 8. Lets hope it's not too serious and he can start playing soon," Wasim said.