Wasim Akram slams mid-tour changes in Pakistan cricket as 'embarrassing'

Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram has criticised the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for making significant changes to the team during the ongoing England tour. Akram described the decision to send back several players and coaches midway through the series as “embarrassing” and questioned the level of communication within the setup.

Pakistan have struggled for consistency in recent times, and Akram believes the team needs greater stability and clearer communication to improve its performances.

“Consistency is the key, of course, but for how long? When seven players and two coaches return in the middle of a tour, it is embarrassing for the team and the captain, and it also shows there is a lack of communication,” Akram said while speaking to YouTuber Furqan Bhatti.

Despite his concerns, the former Pakistan captain remains confident about the talent available in the country. Having worked closely with several PSL franchises over the last few years, Akram said he has had a good view of the players and believes the core group has enough ability to perform at the highest level.

“I have been involved in the PSL with these teams for the past four to five years, so I have seen the situation closely. In my view, the talent is there. Coaches may change, but the core players remain largely the same,” he said.

‘Give the system four to five years’

Akram also urged the PCB to show patience with its domestic cricket structure instead of making frequent changes. He believes the board needs to allow a system to operate for several years before judging its effectiveness.

“Everyone has to give the system at least three to four years. Whoever comes in next should avoid constantly changing the first-class structure. Give it four to five years, and then you will see the results,” Akram said.

Wasim Akram explains why he cannot help Pakistan

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Wasim Akram explains why he cannot help Pakistan

The former Pakistan captain also called for greater attention to grassroots cricket. According to him, Pakistan needs to strengthen its club, school and college cricket structures to ensure a steady supply of players for the future.

“We need to revive club cricket as well as school and college cricket. If grassroots cricket disappears, where will the talent come from? The PCB only takes players after they reach a certain stage,” he added.

Ollie Robinson puts Pakistan under pressure

Meanwhile, Pakistan's struggles on the England tour continued during the second innings of the ongoing Test at Edgbaston.

England pacer Ollie Robinson, who was named Player of the Match in the first two Tests, made an immediate impact in the third Test. He dismissed Pakistan's Saim Ayub with the opening delivery of their second innings before striking again just three balls later.