Shoaib Akhtar's book release function in Mumbai called off

The scheduled release of Shoaib Akhtar's controversial book here has been cancelled without any reason being given. The event was to take place on Sunday.

Former India skipper Dilip Vengsarkar was to release Akhtar's autobiography `Controversially Yours' at the Cricket Club of India (CCI) premises. "The event has been cancelled," confirmed a CCI official, without assigning any reason.

According to sources, the event was cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances.

The sudden cancellation generated speculation that it may be because of less than flattering remarks about India's batting stalwarts Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid.

Akhtar has said he has been misquoted and that he has not lashed out at either cricketer.

On Monday, Akhtar is scheduled to attend another function to promote his book in the city.