Shoaib threatens court action

Shoaib Akhtar spoke at a press conference in Karachi on Wednesday © Getty Images

Shoaib Akhtar is prepared to go to Pakistan's high court if the PCB reject the appeal against his five-year ban.

The 32-year-old fast bowler was on Tuesday handed a five-year ban by the PCB from all cricket either in or for Pakistan following criticisms he made of the board after being overlooked for a central contract.

He vowed straight away to not take the punishment lying down, promising he would appeal within the stipulated seven-day period, and reiterated that stance on Wednesday by confirming he would go to Pakistan’s highest court if the PCB do not reconsider.

“I will not go down without a fight,” Shoaib told a press conference in Karachi.

“If the board reject the appeal, I will go to the high court and supreme court to get justice.

“I will definitely file the appeal in the next two days and will follow the PCB procedure.”

Shoaib was offered a special retainership by the PCB but took umbrage at missing out on a top contract and hit out at the national governing body.

His punishment was much more severe than expected, however, and he feels he has been made an example of.

“I feel I have been personally victimised by the board,” he added.

“I have not done anything wrong. I have not murdered anyone, so why such a harsh penalty?”