London, July 15: Legendary Pakistan all-rounder Wasim akram has pulled out halfway through his one-year contract with English county side Hampshire citing exhaustion and other health concerns. Though the withdrawal was abrupt and took everyone by surprise, Hampshire said they had agreed to the fast Bowler's request. On Sunday Akram, 37, played with reasonable success in Hampshire's national league match at the rose bowl before making his decision. Akram's lawyer Naynesh Desai said: "there are genuine medical reasons and Akram needs a rest. He had a break after the World Cup but then went straight into county cricket." Akram, who retired from international cricket in may, had intended his stint with the second division county side to be the last in first-class cricket but now he will not be able to complete his assignments, having aready missed three of the eight championship matches.
Hampshire captain John Crawley said the team was shocked by Akram's withdrawal.
"His departure has come as a bit of shock to us. He has beeen terrific this season even if he has not quite been able to sustain his old bowling aggression," Crawley said.

Bureau Report