Febuary 12, 1998. Two members of the Pakistani cricket team touring South Africa were mugged and beaten outside their hotel as they stepped out for an evening meal.

The incident has left paceman Mohammed Akram out of the first test and world class off-spinner Saqlain Mushtaq a doubtful starter.

The two cricketers were attacked by three black males who punched and kicked the victims before driving away with whatever cash they had. The assault left Mohammed Akram with bruised ribs and a deep cut on his right hand (his bowling hand) and Saqlain Mushtaq with severe neck injuries. Both were deeply distraught over the incident.

More distraught still were the rest of the Pakistani team members and management who wished to boycott the test and indeed, the entire tour. Dr. Bacher, the Managing Director of South African Cricket struck a conciliatory tune, promised stricter security, and prevented the threatened boycott from taking place.

Pakistan thus go into the first test without ex-captain Wasim Akram, current captain Rashid Latif (out with neck injuries), pacemen Mohammed Akram, and possibly spinner Saqlain Mushtaq. Aamir Sohail, exiled last year over a row with PCB Chief Majid Khan now finds himself captain of the side.