Former Pakistan captain and legendary fast bowler Wasim Akram has voiced concern over the national team’s recent performances, saying he has watched Pakistan cricket struggle for the past five to six years.
Speaking to the media, Wasim Akram raises alarm over Pakistan cricket’s struggles. He said that regardless of who is appointed as coach, the talent pool remains the same, and the focus should instead be placed on the players and the overall cricketing system.
The former captain questioned why a 14-year-old boy in a neighbouring country can showcase his talent while similar opportunities are not available in Pakistan. He stressed that the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) domestic structure should be given at least three to four years to operate consistently before its effectiveness is assessed.
Wasim Akram said there is no substitute for patience and proper planning, adding that, like every other Pakistani, he is also disappointed by the team’s recent performances.
He noted that Pakistan’s white-ball team is in relatively good shape, while the team continues to face difficulties in red-ball cricket. He emphasised the need for consistency, pointing out that the same group of players remains involved and that simply reshuffling the squad will not address the underlying problems.
Calling for the revival of club cricket, Wasim Akram suggested that the PCB should invest Rs100 million each in Karachi and Lahore to identify and develop talent at the grassroots level.
He stressed that Pakistan must play with greater grit and determination, adding that genuine talent is essential to achieving this. He also cautioned against placing excessive expectations on young fast bowlers too early, saying they should first be given opportunities to play and then assessed on the basis of their performances.
Commenting on Shaheen Shah Afridi, Wasim Akram described him as an experienced bowler whose services are particularly valuable in English conditions.
Former players and cricket experts have repeatedly raised concerns over Pakistan’s recent performances, particularly in red-ball cricket. Questions surrounding the domestic structure, player development, talent scouting and coaching policies have intensified following the team’s struggles in the home-and-away series against Bangladesh.
Wasim Akram has called for a long-term approach focused on continuity in domestic cricket, the revival of club cricket and the development of existing talent. He argued that repeatedly changing coaches will not resolve the team’s problems and that Pakistan needs a strong, consistent system to nurture and develop its players.