Wasim Akram Explains Why He Has No Interest in Coaching Pakistan

Former Pakistan fast bowler and captain of the national cricket team, Wasim Akram, has made it clear that he has no desire to take up the role of head coach or chief selector of the national side, citing the disrespect and criticism faced by former cricketers in coaching roles.

Speaking during a local sports programme, Akram responded to a fan’s question about why he has never pursued a coaching position in Pakistan cricket. He explained that the treatment of ex-players-turned-coaches, such as Waqar Younis, has convinced him to contribute to the game in other ways instead.

“When I see how people behave towards former players who take on coaching roles, I know I wouldn’t be able to tolerate such disrespect,” Akram said. “Waqar (Younis) has been a coach multiple times, and the kind of backlash he faced makes me want to stay away from it.”

Despite ruling out an official coaching role, Wasim Akram emphasized that he is always willing to assist Pakistan cricket whenever needed and does not expect to be paid for it.

“I don’t need money to help Pakistan cricket. If I’m invited to a camp, I’ll go. If they want me involved in a tournament, I’ll spend time with the players. But I don’t want to put myself in a position where I have to deal with unnecessary criticism,” he added.

The 58-year-old also highlighted that family commitments are a major factor in his decision.

“I have a 10-year-old daughter, two boys, and I want to spend time with them. But whenever the national team is preparing for a tournament and they set up a training camp, I’m happy to be there and help,” Akram stated.

Pakistan has a history of appointing former cricketers, including Javed Miandad, Misbah-ul-Haq, and Waqar Younis, as head coaches. However, almost all of them faced intense public and media scrutiny after wearing out their welcome, which Wasim Akram believes has made the position thankless. Aaqib Javed, a former member of the Pakistan team, is going through something similar after failing to coach the team into the semi-finals of the Champions Trophy.

With the team now heading towards a period of rebuilding once again, Pakistan’s cricket authorities may need to look beyond former stars like Akram for leadership roles.