Harbhajan didn't deserve axe: Akram

Pakistan pace legend Wasim Akram is surprised that Harbhajan Singh has been left out of the Indian team for the ODIs against England. He feels the off-spinner does not deserve to be dropped despite being out of form.

"It is definitely a surprise for me that he is not in the team. He was expected to be fresh and eager to do well. I am all for youngsters but Harbhajan is only 31. He does not deserve this after just two or three bad series," Akram told 'Mobile ESPN'.

The off-spinner, who is currently leading the Mumbai Indians in the Champions League Twenty20, missed a major part of the England tour due to a abdominal injury.

The feisty bowler has taken just 17 wickets in 17 ODIs this year at a less than impressive average of 41.29. But Akram feels that Harbhajan has a lot more to offer.

"Experience matters a lot. He has been a good servant to the Indian team for 15 years. He bowled really well in the World Cup. His batting too is an asset.

"I just hope this axing is a wake-up call for him and I am sure he is going to return. I have full faith in him, both as a cricketer and as a fighter," said the former Pakistan skipper.