Wasim Akram unhappy with formation of probe committee

Wasim Akram – critical of the PCB

Legendary Pakistan fast bowler Wasim Akram has blasted the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) after they formed a probe committee following Pakistan’s exit at the Asia Cup. The Shahid Afridi-led side failed to reach the final of the tournament after losing to India and Bangladesh.

Speaking on Saturday, Akram said: "I don't understand the purpose of announcing a probe committee when the national team is due to leave for India for the World T20."

The former left-arm pacer noted that this decision was wrong mainly because of the timing with the World T20 set to begin soon. Pakistan won the World T20 title in 2009 but failed to reach the semi-finals in the previous edition in 2014.

"I don't agree with this thinking. This decision of the Pakistan Cricket Board to evaluate the team's performance in the Asia Cup at this time. It does not make sense as the World T20 is just a few days away," he said

Akram also said that it will make no sense to replace the under-fire Afridi as the captain of the side at this point of time. Afridi’s place in the Pakistan team has been questioned as his form and fitness haven’t been up to the mark lately.

"Shahid Afridi has been playing for 20 years. We all know him well and his performances. He is the best man to lead the team even now. He just needs to be given full backing and support by everyone," he added.

The 49-year-old mentioned that he is ready to help Pakistan cricket if he is given enough time and a proper role.

"I am ready to serve Pakistan cricket but I need to be given a proper time table. I can't be asked at the 11th hour to come in. I work according to a schedule. I am ready to work in any capacity but first someone needs to offer me a proper role," he said.

 

Akram also criticised his former fast bowling partner Waqar Younis, who is the current coach of the Pakistan cricket team. He is unhappy that Waqar didn’t pay much attention to the inaugural edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

"Waqar should have been in Dubai and Sharjah for the PSL matches. He needs to watch the matches and players we have available to build a good combination," he added.

Akram, widely considered as the greatest left-arm pacer ever, picked up 414 Test and 502 ODI wickets for Pakistan.