Raza back in action after terror attack on cricket team

Abu Dhabi: A Pakistani umpire shot during a terrorist attack on a convoy taking the Sri Lankan cricket team to a match at Lahore on March 3 has made a brave recovery and will be back in action in today’s third and final Cool & Cool Cup one-day international match between Pakistan and New Zealand.

Speaking to Gulf News from his hotel room this morning Ahsan Raza recounted his close shave with death when he took two bullets in that daring terrorist attack which killed the driver of his fan along.

More than a dozen gunmen used rifles, grenades and rocket launchers to attack the convoy as it approached Gaddafi Stadium for the third day of the second Test against Pakistan, also injuring players and killing six police officers.

“I have to thank God for this speedy recover m” said Raza, who had one bullet in his abdomen while another pierced his lungs. “I was in intensive care for 26 days and after another four days in the regular ward, discharged,” said the former first class wicket-keeper, who will be the fourth umpire in today’s match at the Zayed Cricket Stadium.