Islamabad: Banned fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar still harbours hopes of playing for Pakistan and is keeping himself fit for any call-up to the national side in the future.

The maverick pacer was banned for five years by Pakistan Cricket Board on six counts of code of conduct violations and the uproar over the decision prompted the Senate Standing Committee on Sports to hold a hearing with Akhtar here today. "I expect I will get complete justice and I will return to play for Pakistan very soon," he said.

Akhtar said he has been training hard to keep himself fit to play after he is cleared of the charges. "I am continuing my training and my objective is to play for Pakistan. This is very important for me, I will be fit and ready to play," he said. The fast bowler told the Senate Standing Committee that he had no personal grudges or quarrels against anyone.

"I presented my views to the committee and they gave me a patient hearing. I am grateful to the Senate Committee, media and people for their support," Akhtar said after the hearing. The speedster, who has also lodged an appeal with the PCB against the ban, hoped "it will be rectified".

"I have always followed and respected the law and obeyed orders. I have learnt to live with the law," Akhtar added.

Source : PTI