Lee announced his retirement from international cricket yesterday.
Akhtar and Lee battled for the title of the world's fastest bowler title in the late 90s and early part of the new century. Akhtar twice crossed the 100mph barrier, first in 2002 and then in the 2003 World Cup while Lee once clocked 99.9mph against New Zealand.
"Though we were fierce competitors and rivals on the field but I found Brett Lee to be a honest person who would do anything for the sake of his Australian team," Akhtar said.
"Fast bowling at its best is a spectacle for the people and everyone will miss watching Lee in action. I am really sad to hear about Lee's retirement decision but I think it was coming because I know that he battled through a lot of pain to play for Australia such was his passion for cricket." More