'Ruined our cricket': Asim Kamal plays down Indo-Pak T20 World Cup clash

Former Test cricketer Asim Kamal has criticised the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for operating and managing things poorly in recent times.

While talking to Express News, the left-handed batsman said that PCB has focused far too much on the India-Pakistan fixture which actually contributed to the downfall of cricket in Pakistan.

"Our cricket is ruined because we focused too much on the India-Pakistan match in focus. In order to relieve the pressure, other teams should also be given attention," said Asim.

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Asim, who played 12 Test matches for Pakistan, said that if Pakistan was playing against good oppositions on a regular basis then planning a series against India would not have been a problem.

He further talked about the 'leg pulling' culture in Pakistan cricket and how it will continue to damage cricket and rising stars.

"Senior players do not help upcoming young stars because they are scared of being replaced by them. This trend has continued for a very long while and it needs to be eradicated," he said.

Moving on to the appointment of Ramiz Raja as the new PCB Chairman, Asim said that he has a tough job on his hands as many incompetent people are still residing in their offices.

"He [Ramiz] will have to make bold decisions to fix the Pakistan cricket. He needs to expose and sack those who have been eating away like termites," he claimed.

Talking about the T20 World Cup squad and selections, he said: "Sharjeel Khan is the number one hitter at the moment, Sohaib Maqsood is a great player and can be used with a little counseling. Also, if Fakhar Zaman is included in the World Cup squad, it will be the best decision."

He also said that senior players like Wahab Riaz and Mohammad Hafeez have to be respected and PCB should utilise their experience for the benefit of Pakistan cricket.