Umar Akmal makes serious allegations against Waqar Younis over coaching conduct

Pakistan batter, Umar Akmal, has made serious allegations against former Pakistan head coach Waqar Younis, claiming that he was mentally pressured during his time with the national team. In a recent interview with a local news channel, Akmal revealed that Younis discouraged his attacking approach in Test cricket, which affected his confidence.

Akmal said that whenever he played attacking shots, Younis would criticize him, saying, “Have you started playing T20 cricket in Tests?” 

He also mentioned that when he tried rotating the strike, Younis would remark, “Are you playing an ODI in Test cricket?” 

Akmal expressed his frustration, adding, “Now, look at today’s Test cricket—it doesn’t even last three or four days.”

In addition to this, Akmal claimed that Waqar Younis had issues with his brothers, Kamran Akmal and Adnan Akmal, and openly questioned why all three were part of the national team. 

“I heard it with my own ears. Waqar Younis said, ‘Will all the cricket be played by these brothers?’ What kind of statement is that from a head coach?” Akmal said.

The wicketkeeper-batter further alleged that Waqar Younis was focused on non-cricketing details rather than his performance. 

“He would ask me, ‘Why are you wearing these glasses? Why these shoes?’ Instead of focusing on my cricket, he was more interested in such things,” Akmal shared.

Despite these challenges, Akmal thanked his senior players for supporting him and encouraging him to play his natural game. 

“The senior players sat me down and told me to ignore these things and play my natural game. They encouraged me to focus on my strengths rather than listening to negativity,” Akmal said.

The 34-year old last played for Pakistan in October 2019 during a T20I series against Sri Lanka in Lahore.