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Picture Credit: Twitter

Pakistan batsman Umar Akmal has resumed club cricket activities as part of his rehabilitation process. The 31-year-old made his comeback during a club cricket match in Lahore after getting permission from PCB. He managed just five runs before being dismissed. However, what caught everyone's attention was Akmal's physical appearance as he looked quite out of shape.

In a video doing the rounds on social media, the right-handed batsman was seen coming in to bat in his comeback game. Noticeably, Akmal seemed to have put significant weight. Netizens trolled Umar Akmal for failing to keep up with the fitness standards expected at the international level. A fan even went on to say that she had failed to recognize Umar Akmal in the video, as he has added several kilos to his weight and looks far from fit.

Check out some of the tweets here:

Umar Akmal's rehabilitation program is expected to conclude next month. Following which, he will become eligible to participate in Pakistan's domestic cricket season 2021-22. Speaking after the game, Umar Akmal said that he is very much focused this time around and is also working hard on his fitness. He also thanked PCB for allowing him to play club cricket and expressed hope of making a successful comeback in domestic cricket.

“I want to move forward now. I will try to give my best performances in domestic cricket now that I have been granted permission to play again. Being selected in the side depends on the selectors. My job is to perform well,” Akmal said.

“I am grateful to the PCB for giving me the permission to play cricket. My entire focus is now on playing cricket. I will try to let go of the past and look forward to the future. I have been working on my fitness throughout the testing ordeal. I am completely fit and will be looking to improve my match fitness as well,” he added.