It appears that the goddess of luck has walked out on Shoaib Akhtar. The famous, and controversial, fast bowler of Pakistan has failed the latest fitness test and would not be considered for the coming one-day international series against Sri Lanka.

The news of Shoaib failing the fitness test appeared in nationally circulated newspapers, which reported a brief talk with the interim chief selector Wasim Bari who conducted the fitness test at the National Cricket Academy on Friday (July 17, 2009). Bari told reporters that Shoaib’s performance in the test was not satisfactory and hence he would not be considered for the one-day series against Sri Lanka that starts July 30th, i.e. after the test series between the two cricket teams ends.

While Shoaib must be disappointed over Bari’s decision, the chief selector made it clear that he had great respect for Shoaib and would be glad to see him improve his fitness. The good news for Shoaib is that he may be considered for the next list of 30 ‘probables’ to play the ICC Champions Trophy. His fans will keep their fingers crossed!