'It would be hasty to label the players as culprits'

Former skipper Wasim Akram says it is too early to pass judgement on the spot-fixing scandal.

ISLAMABAD: Former skipper Wasim Akram says spot-fixing allegations might have brought turmoil in Pakistan cricket but it would be hasty to label the players as culprits.

"The team morale is down big time, there is a controversy in which six to seven players are involved. The media in Pakistan has already given their verdict on these allegations but one must wait for the allegations to be proven," he was quoted as saying by espnstar.com.

The spot-fixing controversy was triggered off after a British tabloid claimed the involvement of a 35-year-old property tycoon and alleged match-fixer Mazhar Majeed who was seen boasting about the spots being fixed in the final Test at Lords which Pakistan lost by a record an innings-and 225-run margin.

"I know that these controversial claims are bad for the game and the team but we should wait to hear the other side of the story too. The saying 'innocent unless proven guilty' must be applied to the players," Akram said.

The pace legend said that the row seems to have saddened Pakistan as a whole. "Generally the controversy is looking bad. It's a bad time for Pakistan and Pakistan cricket. The whole nation is depressed. I hope everything becomes alright but let's see what happens," he added.

Despite the spot-fixing allegations, Pakistan team management believes that their limited-overs series (5 ODIs and 2 T20s) against England will go ahead as planned next week but Akram believes Shahid Afridi's men will be up against it.

"Pakistan team will be under scanner and under pressure for the ODIs in England. The Three Lions look a far better side with their confidence sky high at home and this fresh controversy will make matters worse for the returning ODI skipper Shahid Afridi," said Akram.