Umar Akmal regrets Zulqarnain Haider’s behaviour despite past support

Pakistan Test cricketer Umar Akmal has expressed disappointment over Zulqarnain Haider's alleged behaviour, claiming that the former wicketkeeper has not changed even after recovering from a life-threatening illness.

Speaking on a local TV programme, Akmal said he could have taken legal action against Zulqarnain but chose not to, considering his financial difficulties.

“I have no resentment towards anyone. If I wanted I could have sent him a legal notice but I did not as I was aware of his financial situation,” said Akmal.

“But I still let go and as a cricketer and as a junior, I was the first to meet him when he was in need. My wife was the first among those people who motivated me to take that initiative," he added. 
 
“Recently, when he recovered, he once again has started doing the same things and I think that shows how people are but I will still take it positively,” he further added. 

Akmal also mentioned that he was among the first to visit Zulqarnain during his serious illness in 2022 and even provided financial help during that time.

Despite their rocky past—including allegations from Zulqarnain that Umar Akmal tried to sabotage his career—Akmal put differences aside to support him when he was unwell.

Zulqarnain Haider made headlines in 2010 when he abruptly left the Pakistan team during a series in Dubai, citing threats to his life. Though he later returned to domestic cricket, he never regained a spot in the national team.