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"What Trials?" Umar Akmal Slams Pakistan Snub; Accuses Ex-Selector Of Disrespect

Soumyajit Dutta

Umar Akmal and Wahab Riaz [Source: @iamqadirkhawaja/X]Umar Akmal and Wahab Riaz [Source: @iamqadirkhawaja/X]

Veteran Pakistan cricketer Umar Akmal has voiced his frustration over repeated snubs in his bid to return to the national team, citing an unexpected obstacle during talks with former chief selector Wahab Riaz. Notably, the 34-year-old, last featured in a Pakistan jersey during the 2019 home series against Sri Lanka.

Umar Akmal expressed bewilderment at being asked to prove his credentials through trial matches despite his extensive international career spanning 16 Tests, 121 ODIs, and 84 T20Is.

Umar Akmal's Explosive Claims Against Pakistan Hierarchy

Akmal also revisited lingering discontent toward former head coach Waqar Younis, alleging discouraging remarks during his Test stint that undermined his confidence. 

The batter claims his aggressive century in a Test match was met with criticism rather than encouragement, followed by sarcastic jibes after dismissals, experiences he says impacted his growth during formative years.

"I kept saying that I want to play, and I was asked if I had appeared in trials. Wahab Riaz asked me, 'Have you played trial matches?' I was like, 'What are you talking about?' I told him that I am available," Akmal revealed in a recent TV interview, as quoted by geosuper.tv. 

Umar On The 'Disrespect'

The right-hander deemed the trial demand disrespectful given his 15-year professional career. Reflecting on his Test days, Akmal recounted Waqar Younis’ alleged criticism.

"You’ve started playing T20 cricket in Tests," after his century, and a dismissive taunt, "Where’s your T20 cricket now?" following a low score. "These remarks were disheartening and left a lasting impact on my confidence as a young cricketer," he admitted.

With 1,003 Test runs, 3,194 ODI runs, and 1,690 T20I runs, Akmal remains sidelined from Pakistan’s setup and is notably absent from PSL 2024. Previously a mainstay for Lahore Qalandars and Quetta Gladiators, he holds 1,029 PSL runs at a 144.31 strike rate.