Shoaib Akhtar candidly confesses about mental health issues after international retirement

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar, famously known as the Rawalpindi Express, has opened up about suffering from severe depression. In a recent chat with teammate Mohammad Hafeez, Akhtar (on his YouTube channel) revealed that he suffered from depression post-retirement. The fast bowler retired from international cricket after the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup.

Also Read: Felt Like End Of The World: Virat Kohli Remembers Eng 2014, Backs Maxwell's Break

Shoaib Akhtar: World's fastest bowler

One of the fastest bowlers of his era, Shoaib Akhtar broke the 100 mph mark twice in his career and was the first bowler ever to do so. He has the world record for bowling the fastest delivery in cricket. He clocked an astonishing 161.3 km/h against England in 2003 Cricket World Cup. Akhtar was widely regarded for his in-swinging yorkers and change of pace. He was also credited to have redefined fast bowling.

Also Read: 'Our Players Can't Do That': Yuvraj On Maxwell's Mental Health Break

Shoaib Akhtar opens up on depression

In conversation with Pakistan teammate Mohammad Hafeez, Shoaib Akhtar revealed that he suffered from severe depression. He said that he suffered from depression for 6-7 months after retiring from the sport. Shoaib said that he had trouble getting out of the house for six to seven months because he was depressed.

Also Read: Glenn Maxwell: 3 Players Who Took A Break Due To Poor Mental Health

Shoaib Akhtar: Neither the first, nor the last

Shoaib Akhtar is not the only cricketer to take the courage to speak about mental health in recent times. English cricketer Sarah Taylor retired from the sport due to anxiety issues. Australian cricketers Glenn Maxwell and Nic Maddison took a break from the sport due to mental health reasons. India captain Virat Kohli also talked about being in a clueless phase after struggling for form in 2014. In the past, Marcus Trescothick, Jonathan Trott and Shaun Tait have also opened up on mental health issues.

Also Read: "Come Back Stronger" Resound Fans In Response To Glen Maxwell's Break

Shoaib Akhtar: The Rawalpindi express

Shoaib Akhtar has represented Pakistan in 46 Tests and picked up 178 wickets. He picked up another 247 wickets in the 163 ODIs he has played. He has also pocketed 19 wickets in 15 T20Is. Persistent injuries and loss of form forced the Rawalpindi Express to retire from international cricket ending his 14-year controversial stint with Pakistan. Since then, Akhtar has continued as a commentator and a YouTuber.