Dubai, Nov 12: Chances are bleak for Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar to play in the first ODI against West Indies today, after he suffered a Side Strain Injury here on Tuesday evening during practice session.

Sources confirmed that the fast bowler suffered a right calf injury during training session.

Shoaib Akhtar was the centre peace of Pakistan team, but now his participation in the first ODI is doubtful, the Daily Times quoted a Geo News report as saying.

West Indies skipper Chris Gayle said that Shoaib could turn a chief difference between both the opponents in the series in case he was fully fit to play.

He added that Pakistan team was backed by other strong bowlers like Umar Gul so he expected the series a though one. (ANI)