Pakistan’s middle-order batsman Umar Akmal has revealed why he couldn’t emulate the same form as Virat Kohli on the international stage.
The 29-year-old claimed that the support he got from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) was not the same as what Virat Kohli from Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
Speaking to a local media outlet, Akmal said:
His [Kohli’s] cricket board gave him a lot of support. They guided him and continue to guide him even now. I am not saying that I was not given support.
He further implied that the PCB selected players based on favoritism and there was a clear indication of that.
But you know very well who the cricket board backs and doesn’t back. I would request the cricket board to support its players. If you invest in a player, then don’t drop him before big tournaments.
Speaking about his career and selection for the national team, Akmal added that he is still available and would gladly represent Pakistan.
I am available for all three formats of cricket. My first priority is Pakistan and then other leagues. If you are playing for Pakistan and performing well, then all the leagues come to you. Being part of the Pakistan team sends a good message for all the leagues that this is the player to look out for.
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