“Shoaib Akhtar came to Australia as the fastest bowler alive and left with his reputation intact. In fact, Shoaib left Australia with a new found respect from the Australian public and batsmen alike and, perhaps, fear as the deadliest one-day bowler in world cricket,” Eddie Smith wrote in his assessment of Pakistan's enigmatic superstar.

It was 2002 and Pakistan flew into Australia for an ODI bout dubbed the Super Challenge II. Australia were extending its dominance over world cricket and for many, Pakistan remained the top contender to bring them down to earth.

For fans in Pakistan, the indoor series, hosted by Brisbane and Melbourne, presented an opportunity to exact revenge for the 1999 World Cup final defeat to Australia. For Akhtar it was a chance to redeem himself after suspicions about his action and the emergence of Brett Lee as his rival in the pace game.

Australia defeated Pakistan in the first game of the three-match series by seven wickets. But Pakistan, spurred by Akhtar's fire, came back in great style to take the series 2-1.

As Akhtar turn 40 today, here's a look at one of this most memorable spells in ODI cricket.

``

Opinion

Editorial

Kurram atrocity
Updated 22 Nov, 2024

Kurram atrocity

It would be a monumental mistake for the state to continue ignoring the violence in Kurram.
Persistent grip
22 Nov, 2024

Persistent grip

PAKISTAN has now registered 50 polio cases this year. We all saw it coming and yet there was nothing we could do to...
Green transport
22 Nov, 2024

Green transport

THE government has taken a commendable step by announcing a New Energy Vehicle policy aiming to ensure that by 2030,...
Military option
Updated 21 Nov, 2024

Military option

While restoring peace is essential, addressing Balochistan’s socioeconomic deprivation is equally important.
HIV/AIDS disaster
21 Nov, 2024

HIV/AIDS disaster

A TORTUROUS sense of déjà vu is attached to the latest health fiasco at Multan’s Nishtar Hospital. The largest...
Dubious pardon
21 Nov, 2024

Dubious pardon

IT is disturbing how a crime as grave as custodial death has culminated in an out-of-court ‘settlement’. The...