Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar Sunday dispelled the impression he is keen to join Indian movies and quit cricket, saying he intends to play cricket as long as he is performing.
"I want to play cricket and just showing a little interest in films doesn't mean I am leaving the game," Akhtar, speaking for the first time since last month's tour of India, told AFP. "I stayed back in India for two weeks, not for films but to help raise funds for an organisation called India Charity and no one should question my integrity and commitment for the team."
Akhtar said he was ready to play against Zimbabwe in the five-match series starting next week, however the selectors had different ideas and later Sunday axed him from the list of 21 in the initial squad, saying he has to prove his fitness by playing in domestic matches.
The 32-year-old fast bowler was criticised for his off-field activities on the tour of India where Pakistan lost the one-day series 2-3 and Tests 0-1.
Akhtar took six wickets in the first Test in New Delhi where Pakistan lost by six wickets. He then suffered viral infection but still played the second Test in Calcutta, managing just two wickets in the match. In the final Test at Bangalore, Akhtar hurt his back and could take only one wicket in the second innings. Akhtar refused to agree he lacked commitment.