Shoaib's run of impressive performances started in 1999 in a pre-World Cup series against India when he shot to prominence. It was followed by outstanding bowling displays in Sharjah and later in 1999 Cricket World Cup. His memorable performance came in India in 1999 when, as a newcomer to the Pakistan team, he took eight wickets in the Asian Test championship match at Calcutta -- including the wickets of Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid off successive deliveries. This was Shoaib's first encounter with Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar in which Shoaib bowled him for the first ball he delivered to Sachin.

In 2002-03 he played leading roles in Pakistan's wins over South Africa and New Zealand in home and away series. Later in 2005 he fared a spirited bowling attack against Australia. The 2003 World Cup was a huge disappointment especially given the hype, after which he was dropped from the team. He came back in the team with a bang in the 2004 series against New Zealand, but struggled in a lost series against India in 2004. The series ended with a controversy when he left the field citing an injury leading to suspicions by the captain, Inzamam-ul-Haq, about his commitment. Resultantly his relationship with Inzamam-ul-Haq and the coach Bob Woolmer deteriorated. A medical panel set up by PCB to investigate the nature of his injury, however, dispelled all suspicions.