Wasim Akram predicts candidate for Pakistan captaincy after T20 World Cup exit

Former Pakistan pacer Wasim Akram has expressed relief at not being involved with the national team, citing constant criticism and political upheaval within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) as major deterrents. 

Speaking to an Indian sports platform, Akram addressed the recent controversies surrounding the removal of Shaheen Afridi as captain before the T20 World Cup 2024 and the frequent changes in PCB leadership.

"Three chairmen changed in one year. Ramiz Raja was removed, and Najam Sethi came for three months. Sethi left, and Zaka Ashraf came. After four or five months, Mohsin Naqvi came. How would the team stay consistent?" Wasim questioned.

"They don't take our suggestions, and it's great that I am away from Pakistan cricket. It's a 'blessing in disguise' because it is just criticism, politics," he added.

The former legend highlighted the instability within the PCB and its impact on team consistency.

"Babar Azam was removed from captaincy, Shaheen was appointed. He lost one series, and the chairman was also changed in the same period; therefore, they changed the skipper. This is just not on; people make fun of us in world cricket," he said.

The former captain emphasized the need for stability in leadership, suggesting that Shaheen Afridi should have been given more time to prove himself.

"He’s a wicket-taking bowler. He goes for wickets. He attacks with the new ball in the T20 format. Everyone knows that he’ll pitch it up, but he still gets them out, and that’s what I love about him," he said.

"At least give Shaheen a year to lead, and then he could be changed, but I don't know. He’s an aggressive cricketer, only 23 or 24 years old, maybe younger. Got a bright future ahead. He’ll get the captaincy again but should focus on his game until he doesn’t get it," he concluded.