Akram advises PCB against boycotting T20 matches in India
14 Dec 2015 12:02 AM GMT
Notwithstanding India’s delay in giving a go-ahead for the proposed Indo-Pak bilateral series this month, former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram has advised the PCB against thinking about a boycott of the World T20 in India in March-April next year.
“I realise that the Indians have taken too much time over deciding on the bilateral series with Pakistan, but even if it does not happen now it will happen soon,” Akram said at a function in Karachi.
“But yes I think the Indian board should also give a clear answer whether they want to play or not and put the issue aside,” the Sultan of Swing added. Akram however said the PCB should not even think about boycotting the World T20 for any reason.
“The World T20 is an ICC event and we should participate in it at all costs. If we don’t it will harm us in the long run,” Akram said.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Shaharyar Khan has said that the PCB will seek security clearance from the government before deciding to send its team to India for the World T20.
“Not playing in the World T20 will only affect our players and our cricket. If India doesn’t want to play with us fine we can also survive without playing them. But the problem of terrorism will not be finished even if we play or don’t play,” Akram opined.
The legendary left-armer said he had always got the same love and adulation in India that the people of Pakistan always have for Sachin Tendulkar.
“If we play bilateral cricket it is good for both countries,” he said.
Akram also urged senior batsman Younis Khan and the national team head coach Waqar Younis to sit down and settle their differences.
Coach Waqar reason for Pak’s slide, feel Younis, Razzaq
Pakistan stalwarts Younis Khan and Abdul Razzaq have blamed head coach Waqar Younis for the recent slide in the performances of the national team in ODI and T20 cricket. Younis minced no words at a function in Karachi in blaming Waqar for spreading uncertainty in the team. “There shouldn’t be a atmosphere of fear in the dressing room. When the players are not made to feel secure how can they perform for the country,” Younis said. “I think that person should be coach of the Pakistan team who can keep the players united,” Younis said. Younis said that one reason for the recent failures was the induction of many young players and not allowing a combination to settle down.
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