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Cricket should be run by cricketers: Ex-player
DUBAI — Cricket is known for its unpredictability and if you add word Pakistan to the game it becomes even more unpredictable.
A team loaded with talent but inconsistent to the core has brought the series alive by clinching a thrilling one-wicket victory against South Africa in the fourth one-day international at Dubai International Stadium on Friday.
Mohammed Akram, a former Pakistan fast bowler, is here as a commentator and while talking to Khaleej Times exclusively, he shed some light on the problems faced by Pakistan cricket at the moment.
Akram said: “The problems faced by Pakistan cricket are self-inflicted. There is too much politics in Pakistan Cricket Board affairs and it is always run by bureaucrats, mediamen or politicians. Cricket should be run by cricketers only.
“Pakistan should select a group of honest cricketers and send them abroad for management courses. Unless they clear the mess, there would not be any improvement in cricketing affairs.”
The former fast bowler added: “Pakistan cricket is facing a myriad of problems and it needs patience and time to build the team. “There is no dearth of talent in Pakistan but that needs to be chiselled into proper form before it makes an international outing.”
Akram, who played nine Tests and 23 one-dayers for Pakistan, said: “PCB’s problem is that it takes a boy from street and throws him into international arena without keeping in mind the implications of too early exposure. The best way is that after the PCB takes a youngster under its wings, it should let him play in the domestic season for two three years before joining the international team.
“It is also the responsibility of the board to educate the boys about dangers of being trapped by the people involved in illegal activities. The younsters should be taught how to handle the fame and money.”
The World Cup is very near and every team is sharpening its tools for the mega event. Pakistan is one of the least prepared units for tournament. After losing a number of key players, the PCB has no time to waste to finalise the combinations.
Akram, who had stints with a number of English counties, said: “There are boys who can fill the gap because they have got talent. It needs only application and it will need a little bit time.
“We have an experienced coach and I have no doubt that this team can become a fighting unit. But we have to burn midnight oil to get the team ready for the World Cup. We have to mix and match within this bunch of cricketers to develop a good team.
“I am hopeful with all its unpredictability Pakistan will do well in the World Cup because the conditions will suit our style of play.”
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