Shoaib Akhtar a different bowler now: PCB Chief

Shaharyar Khan believes Pakistan has a disciplined bowling outfit now © Getty Images

The irrepressible Shoaib Akhtar today got a huge vote of confidence from Pakistan's top cricket boss who said he was a more disciplined bowler now and was capable of running through the strong Indian batting line-up in the forthcoming series. Shaharyar Khan, the Pakistan Cricket Board chairman, said Pakistani bowling was not at its best when they hosted India last time two years ago but the scenario had changed since Bob Woolmer took over as coach.

Shaharyar, in New Delhi for the two-day Asian Cricket Council meeting, said Akhtar in particular had become a better bowler and would prove to be quite a handful for the Indians when they arrive in Pakistan on January 5 to play three Tests and five ODIs.

"Last time, India had the best batting line up in the world. But our bowlers were not disciplined; they gave away a lot of extras. This time, it is going to be different. Our bowlers were very disciplined against England. And I am sure Akhtar will breakthrough the Indian batting," Shaharyar said.