Speaking exclusively to PakPassion.net earlier today, recently appointed Chief Selector Iqbal Qasim stated that controversial fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar still has a future in international cricket.

"The door is not closed on Shoaib Akhtar, he can still play cricket for Pakistan in future, however what he needs to do is to prove to the selection committee that he is fit enough for international cricket", stated Qasim.

Former Pakistan left arm spinner Qasim, who took over the role of Chief Selector last month from Wasim Bari continued "The reports that the selectors received were that Akhtar was not fit enough to be eligible for selection for the 30 man preliminary squad for the Champions Trophy and they took note of those reports accordingly".

Qasim who represented Pakistan 65 times in international cricket added, "It is absolutely vital that Shoaib Akhtar performs well and on a regular basis in the coming domestic cricket season and proves to the selectors that not only is he bowling well and taking wickets, but he can maintain his fitness levels too". "Its down to Shoaib to show us that he can get himself fit and bowl well".

Qasim further added "not only is it a very important domestic season for Akhtar, but also for a lot of players who are on the verge of international selection. I am going into this job with a very open mind and the selection door is open to youngsters, up and coming players and of course to former international players who are not in the current squad in Sri Lanka. Basically anyone who is performing well in domestic cricket stands a very good chance of selection".

When asked if he had any input into the 30 man preliminary squad that was chosen for the Champions Trophy, Qasim stated that "No I didnt, the 30 man squad, the one day squad in Sri Lanka and the "A" squad that is also currently in Sri Lanka was chosen by the previous selection committee".

Qasim who took 171 wickets in his test career also stated "No players can be selected for the Champions Trophy from outside the 30 original names".

When asked about the forthcoming Under 23 camp in Karachi and its importance and also why the likes of Sohail Khan were not included in the camp, the Chief Selector mentioned "The camp is being run by the NCA under the supervision of Haroon Rashid and is not something that the selectors and I have been involved in. Its good though that the NCA coaches can get some of the up and coming talent together and work one to one with them".

Qasim when questioned about some of the below par performances of the senior batsmen in Sri Lanka stated "It would be unfair for me to start talking about any players while they are in the middle of a tour, but again we'll expect the players in Sri Lanka at the moment to come back to Pakistan and play in the domestic competitions and show to the selectors what sort of form they are in".