Uninspiring return for Shabbir Ahmed

Shabbir Ahmed, the Pakistan fast bowler, made an unimpressive Twenty20 Cup debut as the Multan Tigers were thrashed by Sialkot Stallions on the third day of the tournament at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.

Shabbir was returning after recovering from a knee injury, which he sustained last year, but the early signs weren't too promising. He was carted for 48 runs in his four overs and the Stallions easily overcame a target of 110 with seven overs to spare.

Shabbir's knee injury had been detected before the Champions Trophy last year and a cartilage tear had ruled him out of action. After missing the Australian tour, Shabbir was in line to make it for the one-day series in India. Pakistan's second-string bowling attack performed impressively in India and with both Shoaib Akhtar and Umar Gul set for comebacks, Shabbir will need some incisive spells to return to the international fold.