Speedstar is thankful to 'King Khan'

New Delhi, May 6: Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar, who landed in New Delhi last evening, has expressed his gratitude to Bollywood star and Knight Riders' owner Shahrukh Khan for his support during the past few months when he faced an inquiry and subsequently suspended from international cricket.

Shoaib was hired by Shahrukh for "Knigh Riders", but wasn't able to play following his suspension by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). As per IPL rules, a cricketer can't play in the League if he is banned by his country's cricket board. Only two days ago the PCB had temporarily lifted the five-year ban on Shoaib. "I am grateful to the people of India for embracing me, especially [team owner] Shah Rukh Khan who supported me. Eden Gardens is like my home ground. I am looking ahead to be there soon," the Dawn quoted Shoaib as saying in New Delhi. He added: "I am happy to be in India. I am looking forward to play in the IPL and play my role for my team." Shoaib admitted that he would have to train hard and acclimatize with the conditions though he had visited the country late last year. "I have not played cricket for four months. I have to acclimatize with the conditions and train hard. I want to do my bit for my team," he said.

ANI