Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram, regarded as one of the greats of the game, has opened up about why he hasn’t yet donned the Pakistan national cricket team’s coach’s cap. The 1992 World Cup-winning team member and fast-bowling legend has taken the coaching assignments in franchise cricket in the past. From being associated with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL), to coaching several Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchises over the years, Akram has been well-versed with the job. However, the bowling all-rounder has shied away from being associated with the Pakistan cricket team and has revealed the reason behind his decision.
Speaking in a show, Akram said he will not be able to give the time that a full-time coaching job demands.
“When you become the coach, you need to give at least 200 to 250 days a year to the team and that’s a lot of work. I don’t think I can manage so much work away from Pakistan, from my family. And as it is, I spend time with most of the players in the PSL, they all have my numbers and they keep asking for advice,” Akram told Cricket Pakistan.
The legendary cricketer also cited misbehavior by the fans as one of the reasons for him not to think about coaching Pakistan.
“I am not a fool. I keep on hearing and seeing on social media how people misbehave with their coaches and seniors. The coach isn’t the one playing. The players are the one playing. The coach can only help with the planning. So, if the team loses, I don’t think the coach is as responsible or accountable as we hold him as a nation. So, I’m afraid of that as well, because I can’t tolerate anyone misbehaving with me. And we are becoming like that. I love the people, their enthusiasm and passion for the game, but not the misbehavior that is shown on social media. It shows what we are. I have never seen this happen in other countries,” Akram explained.
