Shabbir Ahmed burst onto the international scene in spectacular style in 2003 as a tall, right arm fast/medium bowler, taking over the mantle of Waqar Younis & Wasim Akram. It was hoped that he would prove the mainstay of the Pakistani bowling line up for years to come, bowling in tandem with Shoaib Akhtar.

In fact, Shabbir shares more traits in common with a typical West Indian bowler - tall, fast, deadly & incredibly laid back!

Sadly for Shabbir, despite being a highly likeable and unassuming individual, his career has been dogged by controversy - a career that promised so much – he raced to 50 test wickets in only 10 matches, and was destined for greatness until he was called for ‘throwing’.

Despite attempts to rectify his action, in particular his ‘effort ball’ he was reported for ‘throwing’ in the West Indies and again v England in 2005. He was subsequently suspended by the ICC from all cricket for 12 months.

Pakistan’s loss has been the Indian Cricket Leagues (ICL) gain. Shabbir has had 2 successful stints in the ICL, and has been plying his trade with the Chennai Superstars for the 2008 season.

A highly versatile bowler, effective in all formats, Shabbir’s absence form the Pakistan team has hit them hard, and he has been difficult to replace.

It is unlikely that he will ever represent Pakistan again.