Afridi’s retirement a joke: Akram
Former Pakistan captain slams all-rounder’s tactics.
Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram has lashed out at Shahid Afridi for his constant change of heart when it comes to representing the national team following his retirement.
Afridi, who announced his retirement after differences with the team management, said that he will not play under the current Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). However, after head coach Waqar Younis’ tenure came to end with the conclusion of the Zimbabwe tour, Afridi expressed his desire to make a comeback.
Akram, not amused by Afridi’s comments, said the all-rounder should make up his mind ‘once and for all’.
“Afridi is making things too complicated for the PCB,” Akram told ESPN. “Cricket is a team game and not an individual sport. You have to treat the interests of the team and the management above your individual preferences.”
This was not the first time Afridi has decided to ‘resign’ from the team. After being appointed Test captain in 2010, the all-rounder quit after just one match, citing lack of form and ability to play the longest format. He also led Pakistan to the semi-final of the 2011 World Cup but was replaced by Misbahul Haq.
Akram said that Afridi needed to put aside his personal interests and play as a professional.
“His retirement has become a joke now. You will have difference with your coaches, chairman and with your colleagues but it should not show in your outlook. At the end of the day you are representing your nation – Pakistan.”
Published in The Express Tribune, September 23rd, 2011.
Afridi, who announced his retirement after differences with the team management, said that he will not play under the current Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). However, after head coach Waqar Younis’ tenure came to end with the conclusion of the Zimbabwe tour, Afridi expressed his desire to make a comeback.
Akram, not amused by Afridi’s comments, said the all-rounder should make up his mind ‘once and for all’.
“Afridi is making things too complicated for the PCB,” Akram told ESPN. “Cricket is a team game and not an individual sport. You have to treat the interests of the team and the management above your individual preferences.”
This was not the first time Afridi has decided to ‘resign’ from the team. After being appointed Test captain in 2010, the all-rounder quit after just one match, citing lack of form and ability to play the longest format. He also led Pakistan to the semi-final of the 2011 World Cup but was replaced by Misbahul Haq.
Akram said that Afridi needed to put aside his personal interests and play as a professional.
“His retirement has become a joke now. You will have difference with your coaches, chairman and with your colleagues but it should not show in your outlook. At the end of the day you are representing your nation – Pakistan.”
Published in The Express Tribune, September 23rd, 2011.