What do you think?
Rate this book
Controversially Yours: An Autobiography
Shoaib Akhtar has been one of the most colorful characters in the history of cricket. He is the fastest bowler in the world, who set an official world record by achieving the fastest delivery when he clocked in at 161.3 km/ph (100.2 mph) twice in the same match. Having taken more than 400 wickets in international cricket, he is a phenomenal cricketer too.
Tagged as being undisciplined, Akhtar’s career has been plagued by injuries, controversies and accusations of poor attitude. Here he tells his side of the story. The early years of deprivation, the relentless self-imposed discipline, the way he played both on the cricket grounds and outside. His is also the inside story of Pakistan cricket, no holds barred: the strange ways of the cricket board, the hierarchies and manipulations and, above all, the magic of the game itself.
Tagged as being undisciplined, Akhtar’s career has been plagued by injuries, controversies and accusations of poor attitude. Here he tells his side of the story. The early years of deprivation, the relentless self-imposed discipline, the way he played both on the cricket grounds and outside. His is also the inside story of Pakistan cricket, no holds barred: the strange ways of the cricket board, the hierarchies and manipulations and, above all, the magic of the game itself.
280 pages, Hardcover
First published September 25, 2011
99 people are currently reading
1344 people want to read
About the author
Shoaib Akhtar
16 books23 followersShoaib Akhtar is a former Pakistani cricketer. Shoaib holds the record for being the fastest bowler in the history of international cricket, he made his Test debut in November 1997 and played his first One Day International four months later.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
July 7, 2020
I read this book before Shoaib Akhtar started his youtube channel and before he started appearing every day on TV talk shows.This soon became tiresome and rather annoying,but I did like the book.
This is a fast paced book by the world's fastest bowler.As for controversy,Shoaib Akhtar was always in the thick of it during his career and the title of the book is very appropriate.
His views won't endear him to some of the biggest names in Pakistan cricket,including Wasim Akram,Waqar Younis,Javed Miandad and many cricket administrators.
Born in poverty and surmounting the odds to play for Pakistan,the story he tells is an interesting one.Along the way,he slept on the floor while playing cricket and lived in the thick of the Karachi violence of the mid 90s.
The stories about the Pakistan dressing room are not very complimentary or pleasant.Akhtar endured many bans,was accused of having used drugs and hitting his teammates,struggled massively with his fitness,went through a lot of pain and was nearly tossed out of the game for alleged chucking.
He survived long enough to bowl the fastest delivery ever recorded (100 miles per hour)and to enrich the game with his searing pace.He was nicknamed "Rawalpindi Express."
Along the way,he collected a lot of scalps,famously clean bowling Tendulkar with his first ball,hitting Brian Lara on the head and cracking open Gary Kirsten's jaw.
A very interesting book which straightaway created a controversy in India when he claimed that Tendulkar was scared of him.
This is a fast paced book by the world's fastest bowler.As for controversy,Shoaib Akhtar was always in the thick of it during his career and the title of the book is very appropriate.
His views won't endear him to some of the biggest names in Pakistan cricket,including Wasim Akram,Waqar Younis,Javed Miandad and many cricket administrators.
Born in poverty and surmounting the odds to play for Pakistan,the story he tells is an interesting one.Along the way,he slept on the floor while playing cricket and lived in the thick of the Karachi violence of the mid 90s.
The stories about the Pakistan dressing room are not very complimentary or pleasant.Akhtar endured many bans,was accused of having used drugs and hitting his teammates,struggled massively with his fitness,went through a lot of pain and was nearly tossed out of the game for alleged chucking.
He survived long enough to bowl the fastest delivery ever recorded (100 miles per hour)and to enrich the game with his searing pace.He was nicknamed "Rawalpindi Express."
Along the way,he collected a lot of scalps,famously clean bowling Tendulkar with his first ball,hitting Brian Lara on the head and cracking open Gary Kirsten's jaw.
A very interesting book which straightaway created a controversy in India when he claimed that Tendulkar was scared of him.
July 29, 2016
Look it's not even so much about how the book is written, because frankly, it isn't all that great. But it's Shoaib bhai we are talking about:D. Hate him all you want, despise his over confident personality but you gotta admit he had talent, talent of bowling FAST and MEAN! At points you are like man, was everybody against Shoaib? Why couldn't he just admit that he was way too cocky for our dressing room. I liked his beginnings, he was truly an ordinary Pakistani, I believe most of young Pakistani guys can relate with his story. Shoaib was all about passion, that's what kept him going..He was a man who took on everybody who did not accept his greatness, and he won in my opinion, since he did play for Pakistan for 18 years..His account of not playing for the Pak vs India semifinal is really heart breaking and especially where he mentions Afridi coming up to him and saying "Shaoib, ye kya hogya yar"...
The chapter towards the end named Dressing Room is so funny I laughed out loud :D I thought that was a smart move adding something like that in the end, it neutralizes all the negativity Shoaib pointed towards when it came to Pak Dressing Room. There are very many little exclusive insights that this book offers and I believe every Cricket Nut must read this.
Look, you may not admire Shoaib the person but you gotta admit, Rawalpindi express with his massive chest out and his locks flying, his super aerodynamic action and his ferocious pace..and wait wait, his post bowling taunts to the batsmen and his JAHAAZ celebrations..definition of a quintessential, perfect fast bowler. I felt emotional towards the end I gotta say..Shoaib redefined fast bowling the way it ought to be, FAST, MEAN and BADASS!!
Thank you Shoaib for all the moments! The Shoaib moments..
The chapter towards the end named Dressing Room is so funny I laughed out loud :D I thought that was a smart move adding something like that in the end, it neutralizes all the negativity Shoaib pointed towards when it came to Pak Dressing Room. There are very many little exclusive insights that this book offers and I believe every Cricket Nut must read this.
Look, you may not admire Shoaib the person but you gotta admit, Rawalpindi express with his massive chest out and his locks flying, his super aerodynamic action and his ferocious pace..and wait wait, his post bowling taunts to the batsmen and his JAHAAZ celebrations..definition of a quintessential, perfect fast bowler. I felt emotional towards the end I gotta say..Shoaib redefined fast bowling the way it ought to be, FAST, MEAN and BADASS!!
Thank you Shoaib for all the moments! The Shoaib moments..
May 1, 2014
In an era of Pakistani cricketing giants, Shoaib Akthar was a towering figure. From 1999 to 2005 there was no better sight than Shoaib Akthar running half the length of the filed, steaming in with his slinging action and throwing the ball like an escaped missile at some of the finest batsmen in the world and making them look like hapless victims on the way.
Throughout his career, Shoaib Akthar has always been a polarising figure. But no one can deny that he didn't have talent or can question his passion and commitment to Pakistani cricket. Its hard to believe that someone with so much talent and passion for the game only ended up played 46 tests and 178 ODI's in an 18 year career. But his statistics don't tell the whole story. Controversy has always followed Shoaib Akthar both on and off the filed. Sometimes his own fault other times a victim of his own reputation. Which is why this is an important book. it gives him an opportunity to set the record straight, to tell his side of the story.
The book it self isn't a literary masterpiece. Its not going to win any awards but what it does well is give a vivid and entertaining account of Shoaib's rise from a poor background to a global superstar. Although it does tends to repeat itself at times. For example how he was a misunderstood child and his lack of consulars and guidance thought out his life. Reading the book, its hard to figure out which poor soul would have been willing to guide him anyway. While shoaib gives an account of the the major controversies in his career, at times it feel like he blames everyone but himself. Even when he accepts the blame, he still tries to come out at the innocent party or a hapless victim in it all. Which definitely sounds like the shoaib we love, hate and admire..sometimes all at the same time.
There are several funny anecdotes spread throughout the book. And times i couldn't help but laugh out loud. We get a glimpse into dressing room and inner working of Pakistani cricket. Shoaib also makes his feelings clear about the PCB, whom he holds responsible for ruining Pakistani cricket and players. Its hard to disagree with him on that. He also gives his option on team mates and other players such as Sachin, Gravid, Lara, Pointing etc. By now you have probably heard and read about the controversy stemmed up by the Indian media. Maybe they hadn't read the book because shoaib praised Sachin plenty of times in the book. The media definitely took some of the quotes out of context and ran with it.
For reasons unknown, shoaib chose to gloss over some of the major turning points in his career. for example the 1999 world cup which made him a superstar, the 2003 world cup the 2005 tour of India and the death of Bob Woolmer etc.
As i said above, the book is not going to win awards but its an enjoyable read for all cricket fans especially from Pakistan. Shoaib always wore his heart on his sleeves..what you see is what you get with him. This book is not going to change your opinion of him. If you are his fan, then you will love him even more after reading this and if you are not then its safe to assume that you wont become one after reading the book either. Regardless of what you think of him... you have to admit..the guy was true superstar and continues to divide opinions even after his retirement.
Throughout his career, Shoaib Akthar has always been a polarising figure. But no one can deny that he didn't have talent or can question his passion and commitment to Pakistani cricket. Its hard to believe that someone with so much talent and passion for the game only ended up played 46 tests and 178 ODI's in an 18 year career. But his statistics don't tell the whole story. Controversy has always followed Shoaib Akthar both on and off the filed. Sometimes his own fault other times a victim of his own reputation. Which is why this is an important book. it gives him an opportunity to set the record straight, to tell his side of the story.
The book it self isn't a literary masterpiece. Its not going to win any awards but what it does well is give a vivid and entertaining account of Shoaib's rise from a poor background to a global superstar. Although it does tends to repeat itself at times. For example how he was a misunderstood child and his lack of consulars and guidance thought out his life. Reading the book, its hard to figure out which poor soul would have been willing to guide him anyway. While shoaib gives an account of the the major controversies in his career, at times it feel like he blames everyone but himself. Even when he accepts the blame, he still tries to come out at the innocent party or a hapless victim in it all. Which definitely sounds like the shoaib we love, hate and admire..sometimes all at the same time.
There are several funny anecdotes spread throughout the book. And times i couldn't help but laugh out loud. We get a glimpse into dressing room and inner working of Pakistani cricket. Shoaib also makes his feelings clear about the PCB, whom he holds responsible for ruining Pakistani cricket and players. Its hard to disagree with him on that. He also gives his option on team mates and other players such as Sachin, Gravid, Lara, Pointing etc. By now you have probably heard and read about the controversy stemmed up by the Indian media. Maybe they hadn't read the book because shoaib praised Sachin plenty of times in the book. The media definitely took some of the quotes out of context and ran with it.
For reasons unknown, shoaib chose to gloss over some of the major turning points in his career. for example the 1999 world cup which made him a superstar, the 2003 world cup the 2005 tour of India and the death of Bob Woolmer etc.
As i said above, the book is not going to win awards but its an enjoyable read for all cricket fans especially from Pakistan. Shoaib always wore his heart on his sleeves..what you see is what you get with him. This book is not going to change your opinion of him. If you are his fan, then you will love him even more after reading this and if you are not then its safe to assume that you wont become one after reading the book either. Regardless of what you think of him... you have to admit..the guy was true superstar and continues to divide opinions even after his retirement.
February 28, 2013
This book was filled with the sort of information you really can't find elsewhere. Not only do we get a look into Shoaib's personal life and version of events but also a glimpse at Pakistan's social and political conditions over the period of a decade. Actually, not just Pakistan, a few more countries across the cricket sphere too.
The inside jokes between the actual living legends of cricket, the sort of knowledge only experience can reveal- this book was an eye opener.
I felt like Shoaib used this opportunity to whine just a little bit and blame lots of people and maybe the claims of some conversations being fabricated in this account are true, who knows, but they're mentioned as such an after thought, you aren't deterred from the point. Honestly though, I didn't lose any respect for him despite this. I had no idea how bloody difficult a journey this was and how full of shit the people in charge are. I was just about bursting with respect for the cricketers of my country (minus those bribed)at the end for the unnecessary obstacles put their way and of course, the fickle nature of fame and and being a crowd favorite.
This was a fantastic read and it contains a very bold narrative about a man who went through quite some trying times but left his mark wherever he went. Does it give him the right to sometimes be an asshole? I can't decide that, but I do know now what provoked such controversy. And even if my opinion doesn't count, I forgive him for what comes off as slight arrogance in the book because when you're the fastest and scariest bowler in cricket history, you sort of deserve to be a little proud of yourself.
The inside jokes between the actual living legends of cricket, the sort of knowledge only experience can reveal- this book was an eye opener.
I felt like Shoaib used this opportunity to whine just a little bit and blame lots of people and maybe the claims of some conversations being fabricated in this account are true, who knows, but they're mentioned as such an after thought, you aren't deterred from the point. Honestly though, I didn't lose any respect for him despite this. I had no idea how bloody difficult a journey this was and how full of shit the people in charge are. I was just about bursting with respect for the cricketers of my country (minus those bribed)at the end for the unnecessary obstacles put their way and of course, the fickle nature of fame and and being a crowd favorite.
This was a fantastic read and it contains a very bold narrative about a man who went through quite some trying times but left his mark wherever he went. Does it give him the right to sometimes be an asshole? I can't decide that, but I do know now what provoked such controversy. And even if my opinion doesn't count, I forgive him for what comes off as slight arrogance in the book because when you're the fastest and scariest bowler in cricket history, you sort of deserve to be a little proud of yourself.
December 25, 2017
I find myself clueless to decide how to start this.
Shall this be about the book, that how it precisely captured the subject 'controversies'?
If I tried to go further, my love for Shoaib Akhtar and Cricket game will dominate my personal opinion about "Controversially Yours".
Cricket had been a passion in Pakistani youth. Being raised as 90s generation in rural environment, Sports was our only entertainment. Cable network or Internet hadn't stepped on that time. As a child our only dream was to get a chance in A level team of village while children and teens used to play uncategorised B, C and D levels.
Cricket is linked to our lives at extreme level. Even some of tragic and pleasant memories are attached to our love
to cricket.
My dying maternal grandma on her death bed cheered my uncle to quit worrying and turn on TV so she could see Inzimam playing. She assured us that she won't die but she did and so as Pakistan lost against Bangladesh (WC 1999). Bangladesh gained test status.
When Wessler 'Hansie' Cronje was charged with matchfixing charges. My elder sister and maternal uncle quit eating for couple of days.
That was the time I saw Akhtar walking to Pakistani fast bowling arena.
I guess one of most annoying things which readers find in this book is Akhtar's self centred tone of criticism. This is understandable if you didn't see Akhtar being interviewed priorly on screen. As watching him on screen changes perception about him. This is why I see his fan following grew in India as he appeared numerous times on their channels. This is how people could see him beyond his controversial image courtesy media.
Akhtar has a very complex personality which had faced a lot of discouragement since his childhood. His natural belief eventually made him victorious but more rude and proud. We can't blame him for that. We know how corrupt our system can become when we try to go fair for ourselves and country.
For instance Akhtar never forgot street vendor and tangah driver who had helped him in early of his career. You will be shocked to know that this fastest ever pacer once had slept on footpaths and begged for food from these innocent street people. Yes. Success isn't easy to avail.
Book also confirmed the statement once he had given while talking to my friend who was a domestic cricketer, struggling in first class level. According to my friend Akhtar claimed that he was already finished inside when they picked him eventually for international level.
Due to lack of grass root coaching and excessive running had ruined his knees. He had already been operated before making debut for Pakistan.
There was not a single night when he slept without physical pain.
I don't know who helped him to write it but it has very firm and natural narration. This catches readers eyes. Specially who followed him since his early career will enjoy more. There were some forgotten incidents which refreshed my memory. I don't doubt any of which he mentioned in the book.
Still hailing from a humble and poor family, Akhtar has toughest self believe you will ever see. General Tauqeer Zia has vital part in success and discovery of this man. General even gave him passage to become one of his family. This is why whenever he abused and scolded him due to his sick habits, Mrs. Tauqeer Zia always intervened. This is why Akhtar acknowledged General's efforts and respects him till this day.
I don't know why our bowlers lack this fierce aggression. I never saw anyone taking on foul mouthed Aussies like Akhtar did. What we got here is a recent example of Wahab on Watson. Still I could see lack of confidence in Wahab's eyes.
Pakistani cricket system is one of most corrupt departments in Pakistani bureaucracy. I have no doubt all the internal battles and politics mentioned here. A part from the book I also believe that only honest person we had as PCB chairman was Tauqeer Zia.
I will never forget 'eagle' and his send off celebration (to Mathew Hayden).
We all love you..............
Shall this be about the book, that how it precisely captured the subject 'controversies'?
If I tried to go further, my love for Shoaib Akhtar and Cricket game will dominate my personal opinion about "Controversially Yours".
Cricket had been a passion in Pakistani youth. Being raised as 90s generation in rural environment, Sports was our only entertainment. Cable network or Internet hadn't stepped on that time. As a child our only dream was to get a chance in A level team of village while children and teens used to play uncategorised B, C and D levels.
Cricket is linked to our lives at extreme level. Even some of tragic and pleasant memories are attached to our love
to cricket.
My dying maternal grandma on her death bed cheered my uncle to quit worrying and turn on TV so she could see Inzimam playing. She assured us that she won't die but she did and so as Pakistan lost against Bangladesh (WC 1999). Bangladesh gained test status.
When Wessler 'Hansie' Cronje was charged with matchfixing charges. My elder sister and maternal uncle quit eating for couple of days.
That was the time I saw Akhtar walking to Pakistani fast bowling arena.
I guess one of most annoying things which readers find in this book is Akhtar's self centred tone of criticism. This is understandable if you didn't see Akhtar being interviewed priorly on screen. As watching him on screen changes perception about him. This is why I see his fan following grew in India as he appeared numerous times on their channels. This is how people could see him beyond his controversial image courtesy media.
Akhtar has a very complex personality which had faced a lot of discouragement since his childhood. His natural belief eventually made him victorious but more rude and proud. We can't blame him for that. We know how corrupt our system can become when we try to go fair for ourselves and country.
For instance Akhtar never forgot street vendor and tangah driver who had helped him in early of his career. You will be shocked to know that this fastest ever pacer once had slept on footpaths and begged for food from these innocent street people. Yes. Success isn't easy to avail.
Book also confirmed the statement once he had given while talking to my friend who was a domestic cricketer, struggling in first class level. According to my friend Akhtar claimed that he was already finished inside when they picked him eventually for international level.
Due to lack of grass root coaching and excessive running had ruined his knees. He had already been operated before making debut for Pakistan.
There was not a single night when he slept without physical pain.
I don't know who helped him to write it but it has very firm and natural narration. This catches readers eyes. Specially who followed him since his early career will enjoy more. There were some forgotten incidents which refreshed my memory. I don't doubt any of which he mentioned in the book.
Still hailing from a humble and poor family, Akhtar has toughest self believe you will ever see. General Tauqeer Zia has vital part in success and discovery of this man. General even gave him passage to become one of his family. This is why whenever he abused and scolded him due to his sick habits, Mrs. Tauqeer Zia always intervened. This is why Akhtar acknowledged General's efforts and respects him till this day.
I don't know why our bowlers lack this fierce aggression. I never saw anyone taking on foul mouthed Aussies like Akhtar did. What we got here is a recent example of Wahab on Watson. Still I could see lack of confidence in Wahab's eyes.
Pakistani cricket system is one of most corrupt departments in Pakistani bureaucracy. I have no doubt all the internal battles and politics mentioned here. A part from the book I also believe that only honest person we had as PCB chairman was Tauqeer Zia.
I will never forget 'eagle' and his send off celebration (to Mathew Hayden).
We all love you..............
July 15, 2014
"How many diamonds can you retrieve from one single mine; there has to be an end somewhere. I don't see any natural fast bowler after me." - Shoaib Akhtar
Humility has never been the Rawalpindi Express’ strength and this is evident in every page of his autobiography. In one paragraph,he compares his looks to that of Indian actor Salman Khan and in another,he avers “I was the star performer,so you can imagine how many of those girls crowded around me”. This self-obsession reaches its peak when he strongly feels that had he been a part of the 2007 world cup team, he would have been charged of Bob Woolmer’s death!
Take away this shameless vanity and what emerges is a disturbing portrait of Pakistani cricket where captains are spineless slaves, one fast bowler schemes against the another,a former captain drives taxi in England and players contemplate suicide. Akhtar blames the PCB for this despondent state of affairs. His run-ins with Ashraf Naseem,the then PCB chairman make for fascinating reading. They also reveal how even the topmost leaders in the government have a direct say in cricket affairs.
When the book itself is blatantly titled “controversially yours”, it is fair to expect some really juicy anecdotes and allegations. Shoaib openly admits to have done ball tampering and says that every fast bowler does it at some point of his career. For Indian readers, the most exasperating parts are the ones where he writes that Rahul Dravid,inspite of his great technique,was not a match winner ! He insinuates that Sachin Tendulkar played for his records first and his team next. It is tough to judge whether such inanities were written straight out of his heart or they were just publicity seeking lines to market the book because Sachin always Sells.
Negativity dominates his portrayal of the dressing room where “fistfights,knives flashed around,bats swung at each other” were common sights. A particularly funny anecdote involves Saqlain Mushtaq chasing around Javed Miandad with a bat and the other teammates following them with a smile in their faces. The acrimony as portrayed in the chapter on dressing room has reflected on the team’s performance which has always been mercurial.
The book’s best parts relate to his childhood and adolescent years. His harrowing experiences during the riots at Karachi underline the vagaries of life in a volatile country like Pakistan.Shoaib rising up the cricket ladder from an underprivileged background has been poignantly captured in the first few chapters.
The book’s biggest drawback is it has more of Shoaib the Star and less of Shoaib The Bowler. Insights into his greatest spells in Colombo and New Zealand are missing and what we get instead are his run-ins with his teammates,coaches,umpires and PCB. Inspite of such pitfalls, this book is a welcome addition to literature on cricket. There is vanity, there is candour, there is controversy, there is unbridled aggression - all the attributes one would perennially associate with a man who once clean bowled Sachin Tendulkar and silenced a million at Eden Gardens.
Humility has never been the Rawalpindi Express’ strength and this is evident in every page of his autobiography. In one paragraph,he compares his looks to that of Indian actor Salman Khan and in another,he avers “I was the star performer,so you can imagine how many of those girls crowded around me”. This self-obsession reaches its peak when he strongly feels that had he been a part of the 2007 world cup team, he would have been charged of Bob Woolmer’s death!
Take away this shameless vanity and what emerges is a disturbing portrait of Pakistani cricket where captains are spineless slaves, one fast bowler schemes against the another,a former captain drives taxi in England and players contemplate suicide. Akhtar blames the PCB for this despondent state of affairs. His run-ins with Ashraf Naseem,the then PCB chairman make for fascinating reading. They also reveal how even the topmost leaders in the government have a direct say in cricket affairs.
When the book itself is blatantly titled “controversially yours”, it is fair to expect some really juicy anecdotes and allegations. Shoaib openly admits to have done ball tampering and says that every fast bowler does it at some point of his career. For Indian readers, the most exasperating parts are the ones where he writes that Rahul Dravid,inspite of his great technique,was not a match winner ! He insinuates that Sachin Tendulkar played for his records first and his team next. It is tough to judge whether such inanities were written straight out of his heart or they were just publicity seeking lines to market the book because Sachin always Sells.
Negativity dominates his portrayal of the dressing room where “fistfights,knives flashed around,bats swung at each other” were common sights. A particularly funny anecdote involves Saqlain Mushtaq chasing around Javed Miandad with a bat and the other teammates following them with a smile in their faces. The acrimony as portrayed in the chapter on dressing room has reflected on the team’s performance which has always been mercurial.
The book’s best parts relate to his childhood and adolescent years. His harrowing experiences during the riots at Karachi underline the vagaries of life in a volatile country like Pakistan.Shoaib rising up the cricket ladder from an underprivileged background has been poignantly captured in the first few chapters.
The book’s biggest drawback is it has more of Shoaib the Star and less of Shoaib The Bowler. Insights into his greatest spells in Colombo and New Zealand are missing and what we get instead are his run-ins with his teammates,coaches,umpires and PCB. Inspite of such pitfalls, this book is a welcome addition to literature on cricket. There is vanity, there is candour, there is controversy, there is unbridled aggression - all the attributes one would perennially associate with a man who once clean bowled Sachin Tendulkar and silenced a million at Eden Gardens.
January 1, 2016
In a way, the whole controversy surrounding the book's launch captures his life and career - egged on by a sense of bravado he talks some nonsense in an interview, blown out of proportion and context, unable to backtrack because of his ego and the spotlight on him, and finally has to retract his statements, asking everyone to read the book - which actually doesn't talk about Sachin 'trembling' at all in the first place.
The book provides an excellent glimpse of all the stuff that's happened that has titled him trouble, the immaturity, the narcissism, the single point of perspective, the self-obsession, the 'harmless mischief maker' image in his head, and the behind-the-scenes politics that is the PCB. There are frequent bombastic passages along the lines of “people didn't like me because I was better and made them insecure” and “I've been a marked man because I was better”, and the book is one long rant. It also, surprisingly, does include some valid points on the state of cricket, Pakistan cricket in particular. There are also loads of antics, adventures and times with teammates, and it was nice to hear a bit about the personal side of international cricketers.
The one thing that one can be very confident about is that this has not been ghostwritten, given the maturity and bravado on display. This is the sort of book where Shoaib specifically mentions the names of his cook and driver and thanks them for their support, and also solemnly states “I was the star performer, so you can imagine how many of those girls crowded around me”.
Forget all the injuries and the bluster and the politics. The image that I will carry of Shoaib will be him steaming in at full pelt, nothing ever held back, and bowling screamers at batsmen. And that is something worth all the masala around his career.
The book provides an excellent glimpse of all the stuff that's happened that has titled him trouble, the immaturity, the narcissism, the single point of perspective, the self-obsession, the 'harmless mischief maker' image in his head, and the behind-the-scenes politics that is the PCB. There are frequent bombastic passages along the lines of “people didn't like me because I was better and made them insecure” and “I've been a marked man because I was better”, and the book is one long rant. It also, surprisingly, does include some valid points on the state of cricket, Pakistan cricket in particular. There are also loads of antics, adventures and times with teammates, and it was nice to hear a bit about the personal side of international cricketers.
The one thing that one can be very confident about is that this has not been ghostwritten, given the maturity and bravado on display. This is the sort of book where Shoaib specifically mentions the names of his cook and driver and thanks them for their support, and also solemnly states “I was the star performer, so you can imagine how many of those girls crowded around me”.
Forget all the injuries and the bluster and the politics. The image that I will carry of Shoaib will be him steaming in at full pelt, nothing ever held back, and bowling screamers at batsmen. And that is something worth all the masala around his career.
April 10, 2014
Such an apt title. Indeed Controversially ours. I am from Rawalpindi and this book was double special for me. For me, Shoaib is one of the most intelligent fast bowlers ever. Faster than the speeding bullet, charging down with that long long run up, what a thrill to watch this guy. The book is a good read too. I enjoyed it a lot. I remember the rumors circling around Rawalpindi before Shaoib's test debut in 1996/97 that there was this fast bowler from Rawalpindi who was finding it hard to get into the national side and every one was making sure of it that he didn't get in. And when he did make his debut, I remember watching him put in an immense shift. He use to bowl the last over of a test match at the same speed that he bowled his first. Immense bowler. Immense character. What a guy. And you know he is a good guy when he specifically mentions the names of his cook and driver in his book and thanks them for their support.
The quote I loved the most in this book? "Playing test cricket is like receiving education." Brilliant brilliant :D
The quote I loved the most in this book? "Playing test cricket is like receiving education." Brilliant brilliant :D
April 15, 2018
1.5/5 This book is about 3 things - Shoaib’s knees, Shoaib’s fights and Shoaib’s rants. Did u expect cricket to be one of the three ? :P
If you truly believe that the whole world conspires against u, maybe it does :) Players, captains, coaches, administrators, umpires and ofcourse SRK and Lalit Modi too. Its hard to find a person against whom Shoaib didnt have a grudge. He attributed his behaviour to his “frustration”. To bhai, baki players Raja-Maharaja ki aulaad nahi the ! Why did he think every1 owed him ???
Raushni auro ke aangan me gavara na sahi,
Kam-se-kam apne hi ghar me to ujala keeje.
Lets say that Shoaib was right in each of those fights. Did he love the game ? I think he is was just a self-obsessed arrogant man as there is not a single loving sentence about d game or memorable on-field moments. Shoaib Akhtar in full flow was a delight but this book is just rants. Recently, I read bios of Ganguly and Manjrekar and both praised his insights on d game. Actually, they made me pick up this book. Sadly, the insights were missing here.
Finally, there is a silver lining (?) that he was frank to admit about ball tampering, being violent in d dressing room and positive doping tests. Respect however for staying untainted in the match-fixing scandals that kept engulfing Pakistan cricket.
PS:- Also, I now think that Indians have handled their talent very well. Flamboyant players like Yuvi and Kohli have been managed well and we have made the most of their talent.
If you truly believe that the whole world conspires against u, maybe it does :) Players, captains, coaches, administrators, umpires and ofcourse SRK and Lalit Modi too. Its hard to find a person against whom Shoaib didnt have a grudge. He attributed his behaviour to his “frustration”. To bhai, baki players Raja-Maharaja ki aulaad nahi the ! Why did he think every1 owed him ???
Raushni auro ke aangan me gavara na sahi,
Kam-se-kam apne hi ghar me to ujala keeje.
Lets say that Shoaib was right in each of those fights. Did he love the game ? I think he is was just a self-obsessed arrogant man as there is not a single loving sentence about d game or memorable on-field moments. Shoaib Akhtar in full flow was a delight but this book is just rants. Recently, I read bios of Ganguly and Manjrekar and both praised his insights on d game. Actually, they made me pick up this book. Sadly, the insights were missing here.
Finally, there is a silver lining (?) that he was frank to admit about ball tampering, being violent in d dressing room and positive doping tests. Respect however for staying untainted in the match-fixing scandals that kept engulfing Pakistan cricket.
PS:- Also, I now think that Indians have handled their talent very well. Flamboyant players like Yuvi and Kohli have been managed well and we have made the most of their talent.
November 4, 2019
“Controversially Yours” arguably has to be the most wayward delivery bowled by Shoaib Akthar in his career till date! Irreverent, irascible and for the most part injudicious, this is an autobiography that in the end analysis, leaves a lot to be desired. One singularly glaring feature of this autobiography is the extraordinary self-praise and gloating contained within the covers. If at all a digitized version of the book was to be released, the publishers may rightly mull about on changing the title of the same to “iBoast” or something similar to such effect. Shoaib and his collaborator seem to have lost sight of the fundamental tenet that whilst an autobiography is about the concerned author, it is not – ‘ONLY’ about the concerned author.
Messrs Akthar and company would have done well to have read a few memorable autobiographies in recent times such as those penned by the erudite Marcus Trescothik and the Iceman Steve Waugh, prior to embarking on such an important endeavor!
While the rise of this mercurial fast bowler from the depths of abject poverty to claim and fame is indeed an achievement to be admired and appreciated, it is paradoxical to note that such a humbling experience has not instilled a sense of humility in this cricketer. At regular intervals throughout the book, the reader is treated to a tiring litany of self-eulogy and encomiums. Whether it be self-proclaiming himself to be a miracle man (when he says that the outcome of the World Cup 2011 semi-final between India & Pakistan would have been different if he had played the game), or a self-anointed Casanova (“And there were girls everywhere. I was the star performer, so you can imagine how many of them crowded around me….”), Shoaib seems to be the epitome of arrogance and haughtiness!
Another feature which arouses the interest of the reader is Shoaib’s seemingly preternatural ability to rub anybody associated with cricket on the wrong side with equal equanimity and absolute impartiality! Profanities are liberally exchanged with cricket administrators, fellow team mates and opponents alike, and a willow is also swung hard in the dressing room contacting a bewildered Mohammed Asif on the thighs, thereby leading to a suspension! Other than the imperious Imran Khan and Brain Lara, no cricketer or captain seems to be deserving of Akthar’s acclaim or appreciation! Other than alleging the lack of match-winning capabilities of Sachin and Rahul, he also goes on to add for good measure that Indian batmen are known for playing for themselves over the cause of their team. Inzamam, Akram and Javed Miandad also cop their share of allegations and are accused of various levels of in competencies.
However where the book scores and is absorbing, if not riveting is when it comes to absolute and raw candor of the final 3 chapters. One of them embeds a no holds barred purgatory about the functioning (or the absolute lack of it) on the part of the Pakistan Cricket Board. Alleging that the same is staffed by cronies and administrators’ having no knowledge about the game, the book provides an amazing insight into the nerve racking and debilitating politics being played out behind the scenes. Another chapter exclusively dedicated to the “Pakistani Dressing Room” equates the confines of the dressing room to “a place where wild animals are packed together”!! Fistfights, flashing knives and swinging bats seem to be a given and acrimonies between players take the form of absolute silence as well as full-fledged slanging contests.
While Shoaib tries to be as candid as possible about various controversial issues such as ball tampering (he alleges that every bowler tampers with the ball on account of dead tracks), his chronically recurring knee, rib and hamstring injuries (instances of tubes sticking out of his knees post a surgery and injections being administered directly into the knees are revelatory), elements of such frankness and honesty are unfortunately masked in the maze of vain glorious self-praise. For instance, an incessant and much embellished mention of his penchant for running during his early childhood days makes one wonder as to whether some pages from the autobiography of Carl Lewis or Usain Bolt have been mistakenly appended to this book. Such narrations sadly relegate to the background more inspiring and heart wrenching stuff such as marble chips eating into the back of an aspiring fast bowler who had no option but to sleep on a hard surface encrusted with sharp marble chips or on the pavement in the company of a kindred tonga driver, who for this generosity is paid a visit when the youngster becomes a “star cricketer”.
There is no doubt that the verisimilitude of many facts mentioned in the autobiography would be debated, denied, disputed and deliberated by the various characters named therein. Facts such as a constant stream of girls making their way in and out of dressing rooms, match fixing charges against players and the serious attribution of ineptitude on the part of many former captains and administrators are not trivial remarks by any stretch of imagination. Whether it is an act of foolish bravado or a courageous act in a reformist vein, only time will tell.
While the sight of a fully fit Shoaib Akthar bounding in at full steam to bowl an unplayable delivery, has no doubt been one of the great spectacles of the cricketing world over the past many years, alas the same cannot be said about his autobiography by any stretch of imagination. It is as though in one fell swoop, the Rawalpindi Express has been metaphorically, symbolically and figuratively – ‘derailed’.
Controversially Yours – widely off the mark!!
Messrs Akthar and company would have done well to have read a few memorable autobiographies in recent times such as those penned by the erudite Marcus Trescothik and the Iceman Steve Waugh, prior to embarking on such an important endeavor!
While the rise of this mercurial fast bowler from the depths of abject poverty to claim and fame is indeed an achievement to be admired and appreciated, it is paradoxical to note that such a humbling experience has not instilled a sense of humility in this cricketer. At regular intervals throughout the book, the reader is treated to a tiring litany of self-eulogy and encomiums. Whether it be self-proclaiming himself to be a miracle man (when he says that the outcome of the World Cup 2011 semi-final between India & Pakistan would have been different if he had played the game), or a self-anointed Casanova (“And there were girls everywhere. I was the star performer, so you can imagine how many of them crowded around me….”), Shoaib seems to be the epitome of arrogance and haughtiness!
Another feature which arouses the interest of the reader is Shoaib’s seemingly preternatural ability to rub anybody associated with cricket on the wrong side with equal equanimity and absolute impartiality! Profanities are liberally exchanged with cricket administrators, fellow team mates and opponents alike, and a willow is also swung hard in the dressing room contacting a bewildered Mohammed Asif on the thighs, thereby leading to a suspension! Other than the imperious Imran Khan and Brain Lara, no cricketer or captain seems to be deserving of Akthar’s acclaim or appreciation! Other than alleging the lack of match-winning capabilities of Sachin and Rahul, he also goes on to add for good measure that Indian batmen are known for playing for themselves over the cause of their team. Inzamam, Akram and Javed Miandad also cop their share of allegations and are accused of various levels of in competencies.
However where the book scores and is absorbing, if not riveting is when it comes to absolute and raw candor of the final 3 chapters. One of them embeds a no holds barred purgatory about the functioning (or the absolute lack of it) on the part of the Pakistan Cricket Board. Alleging that the same is staffed by cronies and administrators’ having no knowledge about the game, the book provides an amazing insight into the nerve racking and debilitating politics being played out behind the scenes. Another chapter exclusively dedicated to the “Pakistani Dressing Room” equates the confines of the dressing room to “a place where wild animals are packed together”!! Fistfights, flashing knives and swinging bats seem to be a given and acrimonies between players take the form of absolute silence as well as full-fledged slanging contests.
While Shoaib tries to be as candid as possible about various controversial issues such as ball tampering (he alleges that every bowler tampers with the ball on account of dead tracks), his chronically recurring knee, rib and hamstring injuries (instances of tubes sticking out of his knees post a surgery and injections being administered directly into the knees are revelatory), elements of such frankness and honesty are unfortunately masked in the maze of vain glorious self-praise. For instance, an incessant and much embellished mention of his penchant for running during his early childhood days makes one wonder as to whether some pages from the autobiography of Carl Lewis or Usain Bolt have been mistakenly appended to this book. Such narrations sadly relegate to the background more inspiring and heart wrenching stuff such as marble chips eating into the back of an aspiring fast bowler who had no option but to sleep on a hard surface encrusted with sharp marble chips or on the pavement in the company of a kindred tonga driver, who for this generosity is paid a visit when the youngster becomes a “star cricketer”.
There is no doubt that the verisimilitude of many facts mentioned in the autobiography would be debated, denied, disputed and deliberated by the various characters named therein. Facts such as a constant stream of girls making their way in and out of dressing rooms, match fixing charges against players and the serious attribution of ineptitude on the part of many former captains and administrators are not trivial remarks by any stretch of imagination. Whether it is an act of foolish bravado or a courageous act in a reformist vein, only time will tell.
While the sight of a fully fit Shoaib Akthar bounding in at full steam to bowl an unplayable delivery, has no doubt been one of the great spectacles of the cricketing world over the past many years, alas the same cannot be said about his autobiography by any stretch of imagination. It is as though in one fell swoop, the Rawalpindi Express has been metaphorically, symbolically and figuratively – ‘derailed’.
Controversially Yours – widely off the mark!!
June 12, 2019
Umm... I decided to buy and read it this World Cup season because I actually am a cricket fiend. And I also wanted to know about Shoaib.
If you are an ardent follower of cricket, and if you love Shoaib Akhtar, you should probably just read it.
If you are an ardent follower of cricket, and if you love Shoaib Akhtar, you should probably just read it.
February 1, 2018
When I picked this book up I had expected to read it like a tabloid. What else can you expect from the big, fast and controversial Rawalpindi express!
But by the end of this book I have to say it in Shoaib style - Dil jeet liya veere! He did of course meet the expectations in the middle of the book, but what really warmed my heart were the first few and the last few chapters of his book.
His personality is reflected in the book. His passion, enthusiasm and might I add the typical Leo personality that the whole world revolves around me.
A must and a fun read for any cricket enthusiast.
But by the end of this book I have to say it in Shoaib style - Dil jeet liya veere! He did of course meet the expectations in the middle of the book, but what really warmed my heart were the first few and the last few chapters of his book.
His personality is reflected in the book. His passion, enthusiasm and might I add the typical Leo personality that the whole world revolves around me.
A must and a fun read for any cricket enthusiast.
June 26, 2019
Shoaib Akhtar Candid
Fair enough, the book. Mainly talks about his issues with the seniors or PCB or politicians in Pakistan. He could have added more cricketing content and given us insights into what happened in certain key situations that made him Shoaib Akhtar on the field. His off the field image and personality is more or less already known to the most of us. I would have loved to know more about his one-on-one contests or the chat he had with his teammates or his captain during tough on-pitch fights and situations. He's mentioned that he doesn't like to be on the receiving end of sympathy but it just feels like he's trying to clear his image and gain sympathy through this book. He was a good bowler and had a lot of on-field experiences/incidents and that could have been talked about in this book.
Fair enough, the book. Mainly talks about his issues with the seniors or PCB or politicians in Pakistan. He could have added more cricketing content and given us insights into what happened in certain key situations that made him Shoaib Akhtar on the field. His off the field image and personality is more or less already known to the most of us. I would have loved to know more about his one-on-one contests or the chat he had with his teammates or his captain during tough on-pitch fights and situations. He's mentioned that he doesn't like to be on the receiving end of sympathy but it just feels like he's trying to clear his image and gain sympathy through this book. He was a good bowler and had a lot of on-field experiences/incidents and that could have been talked about in this book.
October 20, 2013
Not only has the book been written by someone else but looks like quite a bit of the material is also influenced by the writer. Like Shoaib mentions that his school had no counsellor. Being a Pakistani myself, I can pretty much confirm that very very few schools in Pakistan have counsellors, so I don't know what Shoaib is trying to prove here especially when you consider his pretty low middle class upbringing? Maybe he was trying to justify his extra ordinary naughty behaviour when in school and college? A more likely explanation is that he was just acting up in an attempt to get noticed as he had desire from an early age for success, both for malarial goods, travelling and fame.
Shoaib also rightly credits Rawalpindi Cricket Club for grooming him. This club has patrons within the Pakistan Army which itself is the most merit aware institution in Pakistan.
Another aspect which helped Shoaib in his formative years is his positive outlook. He has acknowledged that he avoided people with negative outlooks on life and focused instead only on the positives. This single minded devotion to success probably also helped his chances in the cutthroat Pakistani cricket youth scene.
Shoaib comes across as a for-ever-angry-young-man, which although is a necessary state in the beginning when you are trying to make it but has to discarded when you have made it. His book is filled with stark contradictions, no one helped him but there are quite a few named by him who have helped in with their time and money in the same book; seniors never groomed him but there seem to be many seniors like Majid, Waqar and Imran encouraging him in his own words at other places in the book; BCCP never helped him but the Chairman sent him to Australia to get his suspect bowling action certified.
The thing is that coming from a low background helped him rise above the competition. It generated a desire of monster proportions inside him to succeed with his family having no other options but to allow him to keep playing. Most middle class families would diverted his energies into some other mundane 9-5 job.
And most of all Shaoib's anti-Pakistani rants were very difficult to digest. He is a cricketer not a politician or an philosopher. There were sections in the book where Shoaib was trying to solve Pakistani issues like debt and joblessness. I wish he had had the sense to edit some of these vile comments from his book but then it wouldn't exactly make it controversial would it? Shoaib needs to realise that maybe when he complains over and over again how no one listens to him in Pakistan he actually means that he doesn't listen to everyone around him? How can he discredit his country of birth when all he achieved was in the same dis functional country, the same inept system and the same unimpressed cricket control board? If everyone was so apathetic then how was he ever selected for the Pakistan cricket team?
All in all the book makes excellent readings, with unique inside into the world of Pakistani cricket seen from the eyes of a cricketer coming from an ordinary lower class family. I wish most other players would take the time out and write similar books about their lives as it does make very interesting insight into what-makes-Pakistan-tick. This book is politically incorrect and candid view of life as viewed by Shoaib who seems does seem to love controversy.
Is this chip on the shoulder attitude prevalent in most Pakistanis?
Shoaib seemed to have learnt his lesson by the end of his chequered career in the form of this most valuable advice for any budding cricketer,' it's best to relax, keep your mouth shut, not go complaining from pillor to post, and to remain alert for opportunities. There is a solution to all of one's problems but they will appear in their own time, so one must learn to sit it out and stop panicking.'
Nice Shoaib Bhai, this alone merits 5 stars for your book effort at least. If not for anything else just one chapter called 'The dressing room' makes hilarious reading.
Shoaib also rightly credits Rawalpindi Cricket Club for grooming him. This club has patrons within the Pakistan Army which itself is the most merit aware institution in Pakistan.
Another aspect which helped Shoaib in his formative years is his positive outlook. He has acknowledged that he avoided people with negative outlooks on life and focused instead only on the positives. This single minded devotion to success probably also helped his chances in the cutthroat Pakistani cricket youth scene.
Shoaib comes across as a for-ever-angry-young-man, which although is a necessary state in the beginning when you are trying to make it but has to discarded when you have made it. His book is filled with stark contradictions, no one helped him but there are quite a few named by him who have helped in with their time and money in the same book; seniors never groomed him but there seem to be many seniors like Majid, Waqar and Imran encouraging him in his own words at other places in the book; BCCP never helped him but the Chairman sent him to Australia to get his suspect bowling action certified.
The thing is that coming from a low background helped him rise above the competition. It generated a desire of monster proportions inside him to succeed with his family having no other options but to allow him to keep playing. Most middle class families would diverted his energies into some other mundane 9-5 job.
And most of all Shaoib's anti-Pakistani rants were very difficult to digest. He is a cricketer not a politician or an philosopher. There were sections in the book where Shoaib was trying to solve Pakistani issues like debt and joblessness. I wish he had had the sense to edit some of these vile comments from his book but then it wouldn't exactly make it controversial would it? Shoaib needs to realise that maybe when he complains over and over again how no one listens to him in Pakistan he actually means that he doesn't listen to everyone around him? How can he discredit his country of birth when all he achieved was in the same dis functional country, the same inept system and the same unimpressed cricket control board? If everyone was so apathetic then how was he ever selected for the Pakistan cricket team?
All in all the book makes excellent readings, with unique inside into the world of Pakistani cricket seen from the eyes of a cricketer coming from an ordinary lower class family. I wish most other players would take the time out and write similar books about their lives as it does make very interesting insight into what-makes-Pakistan-tick. This book is politically incorrect and candid view of life as viewed by Shoaib who seems does seem to love controversy.
Is this chip on the shoulder attitude prevalent in most Pakistanis?
Shoaib seemed to have learnt his lesson by the end of his chequered career in the form of this most valuable advice for any budding cricketer,' it's best to relax, keep your mouth shut, not go complaining from pillor to post, and to remain alert for opportunities. There is a solution to all of one's problems but they will appear in their own time, so one must learn to sit it out and stop panicking.'
Nice Shoaib Bhai, this alone merits 5 stars for your book effort at least. If not for anything else just one chapter called 'The dressing room' makes hilarious reading.
February 9, 2014
A book recommended by my friend. A cricketer with a most interesting character in a Pakistani Cricket for many years and the book presents the first hand account of his career. the book wasn't disappointing at all! an awesome read for any cricket fan, once i started it was hard to put down. Thank you Arfah! :)
"How many diamonds can you retrieve from one single mine; there has to be an end somewhere. I don't see any natural fast bowler after me." - Shoaib Akhtar
Every Cricket fan must read this and being a Pakistani one must read him! Truly, He is irreplaceable. The book is filled with information which one cant find elsewhere. Not only his personal life and cricket life, Akhtar has shed light upon the economic, social and political conditions of Pakistan from the view of cricketer and being a Pakistani. Also revealing that how the top most leaders have the direct say in the cricket affairs.
"Controversially yours" is like shoaib akhtar talking directly to his fans. I loved the way punjabi/urdu touches were used, making it more interesting and enjoyable! The Dressing Room, was the hilarious reading however! The jokes between between the living legends of cricket and the sort of knowledge which only experience can reveal-IT WAS AN EYE OPENER!
This player hides nothing, descriptive and honest-book containing bold narrative about going through some trying times but leaving his mark where he went. does it give him a right to (sometimes) be an asshole? I guess, i can't decide that but i now i know what provoked such controversies in his life. I also forgive "Rawalpandi express" for his "SLIGHT" arrogance in the book because when you're the fastest, the scariest bowler, you sort of deserve to be a little proud of yourself.
Thank your Rawalpindi Express! Thank you for all the wickets and the wins!
"How many diamonds can you retrieve from one single mine; there has to be an end somewhere. I don't see any natural fast bowler after me." - Shoaib Akhtar
Every Cricket fan must read this and being a Pakistani one must read him! Truly, He is irreplaceable. The book is filled with information which one cant find elsewhere. Not only his personal life and cricket life, Akhtar has shed light upon the economic, social and political conditions of Pakistan from the view of cricketer and being a Pakistani. Also revealing that how the top most leaders have the direct say in the cricket affairs.
"Controversially yours" is like shoaib akhtar talking directly to his fans. I loved the way punjabi/urdu touches were used, making it more interesting and enjoyable! The Dressing Room, was the hilarious reading however! The jokes between between the living legends of cricket and the sort of knowledge which only experience can reveal-IT WAS AN EYE OPENER!
This player hides nothing, descriptive and honest-book containing bold narrative about going through some trying times but leaving his mark where he went. does it give him a right to (sometimes) be an asshole? I guess, i can't decide that but i now i know what provoked such controversies in his life. I also forgive "Rawalpandi express" for his "SLIGHT" arrogance in the book because when you're the fastest, the scariest bowler, you sort of deserve to be a little proud of yourself.
Thank your Rawalpindi Express! Thank you for all the wickets and the wins!
January 12, 2018
Controversially Yours by Shoaib Akhtar is not the best-written sports autobiography but it is still a very enjoyable read. Shoaib takes us on a journey from his hometown of Rawalpindi to the high of those two unforgettable yorkers to dismiss Dravid and Tendulkar in India and the various lows of having been banned for 5 years, hitting his own team-mate in training or having his personal illness revealed to the world by the PCB.
His career was dogged by injuries, scandals, run-ins with authorities but the Rawalpindi Express still managed to bag well over 400 international wickets in all competitions with a career spanning over 14 years.
The book is a fast read and as stated by many reviewers on this page could have been written slightly more professionally. It contains a number of anecdotes and reveals several things about his life as a child growing up in Rawalpindi.
All in all, for any Pakistan cricket fan this is not the most important book. However, if you are a die-hard Shoaib Akhtar fan do not give it a miss.
His career was dogged by injuries, scandals, run-ins with authorities but the Rawalpindi Express still managed to bag well over 400 international wickets in all competitions with a career spanning over 14 years.
The book is a fast read and as stated by many reviewers on this page could have been written slightly more professionally. It contains a number of anecdotes and reveals several things about his life as a child growing up in Rawalpindi.
All in all, for any Pakistan cricket fan this is not the most important book. However, if you are a die-hard Shoaib Akhtar fan do not give it a miss.
February 11, 2013
A book I had really looked forward to read. Shoaib Akhtar, probably the most interesting character in Pakistani cricket for many years, and here the book presents a first hand account of his career. I must say the book was not disappointing! Once I started reading it was very hard to put the book down again, a read for any cricket fan! The way the book was written was too simple for my liking however small touches in urdu/punjabi were definitely enjoyed. His views on everything from his scandals, the PCB, all the allegations towards him in his career are all controversies he talks about. It is still hard to determine what is the truth, nonetheless it is Shoaib Akhtar controversially yours as we know him!
May 6, 2016
A heart-to-heart account of the life of a sportsperson. It sheds light on how he had been misunderstood throughout and yet battled it all out. You also get to see the side of his which was never in light before. A wonderful read & it has pushed my respect for this great fast bowler. The book is like having a conversation with Shoaib sitting right besides you as a good friend. Enjoyed every bit of it.
April 15, 2012
Although the book isn't exceptionally well written and the depth / range of thoughts conveyed are somewhat limited and repetitive; however, there are quite a few interesting anecdotes and stories that most of the public is not familiar or does not associate Shoaib Akhtar with. Would have perhaps given the book 2.5 stars if there were an option in Good Reads.
January 23, 2015
Great read! It was nice to hear things from his perspective...how Shoaib Bhai sees the world? From the dressing room incidents, to Shoaib's naughty childhood...the book has many gems for cricket's lovers.
August 30, 2012
A controversial career ended with a controversy and Shoaib intends to keep it that way with this book.
Is a personal account of Shoaib Akhtar's thoughts and views which he had during his playing days as he himself claims.
Is recommended only for Akhtar fans, rest will find it boring...
Is a personal account of Shoaib Akhtar's thoughts and views which he had during his playing days as he himself claims.
Is recommended only for Akhtar fans, rest will find it boring...
February 12, 2012
I found it surprisingly frank and quite enjoyable although there was not enough about cricket. The PCB come across v badly.
April 9, 2013
I like this cricketer and so i found this book interesting knowing what actually happened in his life...
February 4, 2014
A great book specially if you are a shoaib akhtar fan really ans inspiring and a must read
October 21, 2014
Rawalpindi Express!! Inspiring one, The way of his hard work struggle is speechless. Though he was suffering from asthma and he was flat footed. Respect (y)
February 6, 2022
BOOK REVIEW
Book Name:
CONTROVERSIALLY YOURS
Author Name:
SHOAIB AKHTAR
Publisher:
HarperCollins Publishers
10 East 53rd Street, New York NY 10022,USA
BOOK INTRODUCTION:
“Controversially Yours” an Autobiography by Shoaib Akhtar. Author of the book is “Anshu Dogra”. Shoaib Akhtar is a Pakistani Cricketer who played all formats of the game over a fourteen year career. Known to be the fastest bowler in the history of cricket, delivering a world record top speed of 161km/ph. He is probably the interesting cricketer of PAKISTAN,
and here the book presents the first hand account of his career. A heart-to-heart account of the life of a sportsmen. It sheds light on how he had been misunderstood throughout and yet battled it all out. This book also describe the side of his which was never in light before. Here he tells his side of the story. The early years of deprivation, the relentless self-imposed discipline, the way he played both on the field and outside the field. Controversies with the players that happened in his career are also described, the way senior players treat juniors, and the way they tried to ruined the career of others. In this book Shoaib Akhtar childhood is covered, struggling days are covered, Pakistan dressing room stories and many more things are covered.
INTRODUCTION TOWARDS THE EVENTS:
Controversially Yours is an Autobiography of Shoaib Akhtar, it is very interesting. I have read a lot of biographies of different cricketers but they tend to be boring. It is exception, outspoken, frank and honest book written by Shoaib Akhtar according to his personality. I liked this book because a lot of bold statements are given in this and a lot of giants are exposed. Some cricketers are exposed but some cricketers are appreciated in this book. The system of PCB is describe in this book and a lot of giants sitting in PCB are exposed. Pakistan Cricket team dressing room is discussed.
EVENTS DISCRIBED:
APRAISING AND CRITICIZING OF CRICKETRS:
Shoaib Akhtar appraise BRIAN LARA in his book. He said that he is one of the most successful batsmen in the world. Although some controversies happened between them in 2007 Champions Trophy, but he appreciate Brian Lara as best batsmen in the world. Secondly he criticize Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid, he said although they were best batsmen but they were not match winning players. Similarly it is described that Wasim Akram has tried alot to ruin the career of Waqar Younas, and this is accepted by Waqar Younas in his book. Another bold claim about Wasim Akram is that he does not accept good palyer in Pakistan Team. Going further it is discussed that in Pakistani dressing room there is Intolerance, and it seem like that you are in uneducated peoples. An incited in this book is described when Saqlain Mushtaq tried to fight with coach of that time Javaid Miandad , this all happened in making fun and Saqlain fired up. Moving forward a POLITICAL touch is given in this book. It is described that when he was dropped he approached REHMAN MALIK and ASIF ALI ZARDARI and then he made his way into team. He further discuss about the rape scandal that how PCB hides the real culprits and he was brought to lime light. At last of this book he wrote about BALL TEMPERING, that this culture is previlated not only in PAKISTAN CRICKET TEAM but in every team.
COCLUSION:
If we look towards the efforts of Shoaib Akhtar in this book we should appreciate him. He tried to present his personality in positive way. I appreciate this book because in other biographies TEAM PERFORMANCES are discussed but in this book he tried to project his personality. And similarly this book give us BOLD and UNIQUE analysis on cricket team specifically PAKISTAN CRICKET TEAM and PAKISTAN DRESSING ROOM.
And I recommend to read this book if you are cricket loving.
Name:
UMER ABBASI
Roll number:
21-SE-63
Department:
SOFTWARE ENGINEERING
University:
University Of Engineering And Technology Taxila
Book Name:
CONTROVERSIALLY YOURS
Author Name:
SHOAIB AKHTAR
Publisher:
HarperCollins Publishers
10 East 53rd Street, New York NY 10022,USA
BOOK INTRODUCTION:
“Controversially Yours” an Autobiography by Shoaib Akhtar. Author of the book is “Anshu Dogra”. Shoaib Akhtar is a Pakistani Cricketer who played all formats of the game over a fourteen year career. Known to be the fastest bowler in the history of cricket, delivering a world record top speed of 161km/ph. He is probably the interesting cricketer of PAKISTAN,
and here the book presents the first hand account of his career. A heart-to-heart account of the life of a sportsmen. It sheds light on how he had been misunderstood throughout and yet battled it all out. This book also describe the side of his which was never in light before. Here he tells his side of the story. The early years of deprivation, the relentless self-imposed discipline, the way he played both on the field and outside the field. Controversies with the players that happened in his career are also described, the way senior players treat juniors, and the way they tried to ruined the career of others. In this book Shoaib Akhtar childhood is covered, struggling days are covered, Pakistan dressing room stories and many more things are covered.
INTRODUCTION TOWARDS THE EVENTS:
Controversially Yours is an Autobiography of Shoaib Akhtar, it is very interesting. I have read a lot of biographies of different cricketers but they tend to be boring. It is exception, outspoken, frank and honest book written by Shoaib Akhtar according to his personality. I liked this book because a lot of bold statements are given in this and a lot of giants are exposed. Some cricketers are exposed but some cricketers are appreciated in this book. The system of PCB is describe in this book and a lot of giants sitting in PCB are exposed. Pakistan Cricket team dressing room is discussed.
EVENTS DISCRIBED:
APRAISING AND CRITICIZING OF CRICKETRS:
Shoaib Akhtar appraise BRIAN LARA in his book. He said that he is one of the most successful batsmen in the world. Although some controversies happened between them in 2007 Champions Trophy, but he appreciate Brian Lara as best batsmen in the world. Secondly he criticize Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid, he said although they were best batsmen but they were not match winning players. Similarly it is described that Wasim Akram has tried alot to ruin the career of Waqar Younas, and this is accepted by Waqar Younas in his book. Another bold claim about Wasim Akram is that he does not accept good palyer in Pakistan Team. Going further it is discussed that in Pakistani dressing room there is Intolerance, and it seem like that you are in uneducated peoples. An incited in this book is described when Saqlain Mushtaq tried to fight with coach of that time Javaid Miandad , this all happened in making fun and Saqlain fired up. Moving forward a POLITICAL touch is given in this book. It is described that when he was dropped he approached REHMAN MALIK and ASIF ALI ZARDARI and then he made his way into team. He further discuss about the rape scandal that how PCB hides the real culprits and he was brought to lime light. At last of this book he wrote about BALL TEMPERING, that this culture is previlated not only in PAKISTAN CRICKET TEAM but in every team.
COCLUSION:
If we look towards the efforts of Shoaib Akhtar in this book we should appreciate him. He tried to present his personality in positive way. I appreciate this book because in other biographies TEAM PERFORMANCES are discussed but in this book he tried to project his personality. And similarly this book give us BOLD and UNIQUE analysis on cricket team specifically PAKISTAN CRICKET TEAM and PAKISTAN DRESSING ROOM.
And I recommend to read this book if you are cricket loving.
Name:
UMER ABBASI
Roll number:
21-SE-63
Department:
SOFTWARE ENGINEERING
University:
University Of Engineering And Technology Taxila
June 16, 2019
I will be lying by saying that I never had a crush of Shoaib, seeing this book at store added excitement for reading it.And to my surprise it was a signed copy.
Controversially Yours is an autobiography by Shoaib Akhtar, giving glimpses of his polemic life. I found him very truthful and straight forward and we very well know what happens when a person is very straight forward.
Book is 100% entertaining giving us some unbelievable insights about PCB and other senior cricketers and believe me you may start liking him for his strange personality.
Somehow I feel if he had got good guidance and an understanding team he would have ruled the cricketing world. He has written a lot about economic ,social and political conditions of Pakistan and its consequences on cricket and its players. A constant insecurity about life after cricket shows the plight of players and why some of them choose match fixing.
Some chapters are dedicated for complaining and whining about PCB and other people which made things little repetitive.
Few dialogues in punjabi/Urdu are commendable and have added more of his touch in the book.
Though the book didn’t make any distinct impression on me due to the lack of any mention about his personal life, it surely clears controversial things about him.
I have always found him raw and rough but there is something underneath that rawness which will attract you, which will draw you towards him and I can relate to few incidents told by him in starting of his book.
Thoroughly enjoyed!!
Controversially Yours is an autobiography by Shoaib Akhtar, giving glimpses of his polemic life. I found him very truthful and straight forward and we very well know what happens when a person is very straight forward.
Book is 100% entertaining giving us some unbelievable insights about PCB and other senior cricketers and believe me you may start liking him for his strange personality.
Somehow I feel if he had got good guidance and an understanding team he would have ruled the cricketing world. He has written a lot about economic ,social and political conditions of Pakistan and its consequences on cricket and its players. A constant insecurity about life after cricket shows the plight of players and why some of them choose match fixing.
Some chapters are dedicated for complaining and whining about PCB and other people which made things little repetitive.
Few dialogues in punjabi/Urdu are commendable and have added more of his touch in the book.
Though the book didn’t make any distinct impression on me due to the lack of any mention about his personal life, it surely clears controversial things about him.
I have always found him raw and rough but there is something underneath that rawness which will attract you, which will draw you towards him and I can relate to few incidents told by him in starting of his book.
Thoroughly enjoyed!!
April 13, 2020
Early on in the book, Shoaib recounts an incidence that seems to provide great insight into his temperament. In 1993, he was selected by the Pakistan International Airways (PIA), with whom he was all set to begin his domestic cricketing career. At PIA, he was pushed around and often verbally abused, and so, he soon quit. Fast forward a year, and Shoaib now plays for the Agriculture Development Bank of Pakistan (ADBP). As luck would have it, the same year ADBP gets to play PIA, and Shoaib wins them the match. What does he do next? To vent out his pent-up frustration and anger, he stands under the PIA's dressing room window and abuses them to his heart's content.
Between 1994 and 2013 (when this book is published), Shoaib seems to have matured very little as a person. Most of his autobiography has been devoted to describing his grudges against Pakistan's cricketing greats (Javed Miandad, Wasim Akram, Inzemam ul-Haq, Shahid Afridi and Shoaib Malik all get mentioned), and the PCB's top brass. Throughout, he is very rarely apologetic for his own misdemeanour.
Another remarkable thing about this autobiography is that you can rewatch a lot of incidents that Shoaib mentions on YouTube, and find that a lot of his statements are either outright self-glorifying lies or half truths (case in point: his bouncer to Gary Kirsten in 2003). The only chapter that is written in good vein is on his side's dressing room antics.
2.49 stars
Between 1994 and 2013 (when this book is published), Shoaib seems to have matured very little as a person. Most of his autobiography has been devoted to describing his grudges against Pakistan's cricketing greats (Javed Miandad, Wasim Akram, Inzemam ul-Haq, Shahid Afridi and Shoaib Malik all get mentioned), and the PCB's top brass. Throughout, he is very rarely apologetic for his own misdemeanour.
Another remarkable thing about this autobiography is that you can rewatch a lot of incidents that Shoaib mentions on YouTube, and find that a lot of his statements are either outright self-glorifying lies or half truths (case in point: his bouncer to Gary Kirsten in 2003). The only chapter that is written in good vein is on his side's dressing room antics.
2.49 stars
August 16, 2019
Call him a brat, a show-off, or the 'bad boy' of Pakistan Cricket, but he will never be forgotten as The 'Rawalpindi Express'!
So much to the PCB's chagrin, Shoaib has always lived his life and his game on his sleeve. From dope charges, rape charges to ball chucking; the man has faced the false accusations, head-on and has come out as a winner.
A career that has spanned for nearly 2 decades, this man has bored the brunt of incessant knee pain and subsequent surgeries. However where it hurt the most was that there would be no support or 'qadar' whatsoever from the PCB. If it wasn't for Shoaib's passion and persistence, the world would not have witnessed this larger than life phenomena in The Shoaib Akhtar.
I was one of the fortunate ones to have seen him play at the Delhi stadium back in 2007, Pakistan's tour of India. We were sitting at the ONGC stand and would be in awe to see, world's fastest bowler, quite literally take guard from the boundary line. And see him race all the way up to deliver like an Eagle, was truly remarkable.
Pakistan Cricket is famous for producing 'raw' talent and Shoaib himself is one such living example. Thank you for the entertainment. Shoaib Bhai Haazir Hain!
So much to the PCB's chagrin, Shoaib has always lived his life and his game on his sleeve. From dope charges, rape charges to ball chucking; the man has faced the false accusations, head-on and has come out as a winner.
A career that has spanned for nearly 2 decades, this man has bored the brunt of incessant knee pain and subsequent surgeries. However where it hurt the most was that there would be no support or 'qadar' whatsoever from the PCB. If it wasn't for Shoaib's passion and persistence, the world would not have witnessed this larger than life phenomena in The Shoaib Akhtar.
I was one of the fortunate ones to have seen him play at the Delhi stadium back in 2007, Pakistan's tour of India. We were sitting at the ONGC stand and would be in awe to see, world's fastest bowler, quite literally take guard from the boundary line. And see him race all the way up to deliver like an Eagle, was truly remarkable.
Pakistan Cricket is famous for producing 'raw' talent and Shoaib himself is one such living example. Thank you for the entertainment. Shoaib Bhai Haazir Hain!
June 11, 2020
সবচেয়ে বেশি যা এই বইতে তুলে ধরা হয়েছে তা হল পাকিস্তান ক্রিকেট বোর্ড থেকে শুরু করে কোচ , ম্যানেজার এবং খেলোয়াড়দের অভ্যন্তরীণ দুর্নীতি, প্রতিহিংসা, স্বার্থপরতা এবং কোন্দল। ক্রিকেটের পেছনের গল্প - ফিক্সিং, গ্রপিং, ড্রেসিং রুমের দ্বন্দ, রাজনৈতিক কোন্দল, পাকিস্তানী মিডিয়া আরও অনেক কিছু।
কিছু চুম্বক অংশ :
ইমরান খান যদি পাকিস্তানের হয়ে না খেলতো তবে পাকিস্তানের ক্রিকেট এতদূর আসতো না।
ওয়াসিম আকরাম ক্রিকেটার হিসাবে দুর্দান্ত হলেও অধিনায়ক হিসাবে তারও পদখলন হয়েছিল।
পৃথিবীর সব ফাস্ট বোলারই বল টেম্পারিং করে তবে হয়তো পাকিস্তানিরা এটা আগে শুরু করেছিল।
পাকিস্তানী কিছু বোলার আম্পায়ারের কোটের পকেটে থাকা বল পাল্টে দিয়েছিলো ভীষণভাবে সুইং করা বলের সাথে। এঘটনার পর থেকে লাঞ্চে যাওয়ার আগে আম্পায়াররা কোট লকারে রেখে যায়।
সাউথ আফ্রিকা সফরে মোহাম্মদ আকরাম আর সাকলাইন মুশতাক মিথ্যা ছিনতাই এর ঘটনা রটিয়ে ছিলো যাতে করে সিরিজ পন্ড হয়ে যায়।
সাবেক এক পাকিস্তানী অধিনায়ক যার ৩০০ উপরে উইকেট আছে, এখন লন্ডনে ট্যাক্সি চালায়।
আফ্রিদির আথিনায়ক হওয়ার কথা থাকলেও ওয়াসিম আকরামের গুটি চালানোতে তাকে বাদ দিয়ে মেরুদন্ডহীন শোয়েব মালিককে অধিনায়ক করা হয়েছিল।
ম্যাচ পাতানোর অভিযোগে সালমান বাট ও আমির বিপর্যস্ত হলেও একদম স্বাভাবিক ও শান্ত ছিল আসিফ। ওর আগেও ধরা খাওয়ার অভিজ্ঞতা ছিলো।
এরকম আরো বহু বিস্ময়কর ঘটনা পাকিস্তানী ক্রিকেট সম্পর্কে জানা যাবে।
কিছু চুম্বক অংশ :
ইমরান খান যদি পাকিস্তানের হয়ে না খেলতো তবে পাকিস্তানের ক্রিকেট এতদূর আসতো না।
ওয়াসিম আকরাম ক্রিকেটার হিসাবে দুর্দান্ত হলেও অধিনায়ক হিসাবে তারও পদখলন হয়েছিল।
পৃথিবীর সব ফাস্ট বোলারই বল টেম্পারিং করে তবে হয়তো পাকিস্তানিরা এটা আগে শুরু করেছিল।
পাকিস্তানী কিছু বোলার আম্পায়ারের কোটের পকেটে থাকা বল পাল্টে দিয়েছিলো ভীষণভাবে সুইং করা বলের সাথে। এঘটনার পর থেকে লাঞ্চে যাওয়ার আগে আম্পায়াররা কোট লকারে রেখে যায়।
সাউথ আফ্রিকা সফরে মোহাম্মদ আকরাম আর সাকলাইন মুশতাক মিথ্যা ছিনতাই এর ঘটনা রটিয়ে ছিলো যাতে করে সিরিজ পন্ড হয়ে যায়।
সাবেক এক পাকিস্তানী অধিনায়ক যার ৩০০ উপরে উইকেট আছে, এখন লন্ডনে ট্যাক্সি চালায়।
আফ্রিদির আথিনায়ক হওয়ার কথা থাকলেও ওয়াসিম আকরামের গুটি চালানোতে তাকে বাদ দিয়ে মেরুদন্ডহীন শোয়েব মালিককে অধিনায়ক করা হয়েছিল।
ম্যাচ পাতানোর অভিযোগে সালমান বাট ও আমির বিপর্যস্ত হলেও একদম স্বাভাবিক ও শান্ত ছিল আসিফ। ওর আগেও ধরা খাওয়ার অভিজ্ঞতা ছিলো।
এরকম আরো বহু বিস্ময়কর ঘটনা পাকিস্তানী ক্রিকেট সম্পর্কে জানা যাবে।
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews