Shabbir146;s big day

After a seven-month break, Pakistan fast bowler Shabbir Ahmed will finally return to competitive cricket on Thursday. And that is good news for the Pakistan pace department that has been found wanting in the ongoing tour to India.

Though the tall gangling fast bowler claimed he was 8216;8216;fit and ready8217;8217; for the one-day series in India, he will have to go through a fitness test during a one-day match in Karachi. Shabbir has been out of international cricket since September, 2004 with a muscle tear on his right knee.

Advised rest for a major part of the recovery process, Shabbir began training just last month at Pakistan Cricket Board8217;s National Cricket Academy with trainer Grant Compton. Speaking to The Indian Express from Karachi, Shabbir noted that the match on the morrow is important for him. 8216;8216;Now comes the real test. I want to see myself especially while fielding in match situation. Only then will the picture become clear,8217;8217; said Shabbir.