Pakistani cricketer Umar Akmal has launched a scathing attack on the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), accusing it of unfairly sidelining players based on age while allowing older cricketers to continue in the Pakistan Super League (PSL X).
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Akmal voiced frustration over the treatment of himself, Ahmed Shehzad, and Sohaib Maqsood—players all nearing 35—who, he claims, are being told they are “too old” to play or even mentor PSL teams. Akmal, in a pointed reference to Quetta Gladiators’ veteran all-rounder Shoaib Malik, said:
Ahmed Shehzad, Sohaib Maqsood and I are told that we are too old to play for or even mentor PSL teams. But players who are 45 years old are still playing. What are we supposed to do? Shoot ourselves?
Akmal also questioned the PCB’s fitness standards, alleging that many senior players and coaches have never undergone proper fitness tests. “Ask me, I’ve been with them; I’ve played for Pakistan. They never took fitness tests,” he claimed.
While respecting senior players, Umar Akmal argued that Pakistan’s cricketing future should take precedence. “If senior players keep playing domestic cricket just to prepare for PSL, where does that leave young talent?” he asked.
He further criticized the PCB’s management, stating, “These people just take salaries while players suffer because of their mistakes. This system needs to change.” Akmal linked the empty stadiums during PSL X to the board’s selection policies, arguing that fans want to see star players, not unfamiliar faces.
Turning to Pakistan captain Babar Azam, Akmal suggested he should bat at number three to improve his performance, warning that PSL 10 is crucial for Babar’s future. “He must improve his game to prove himself to the PCB and fans,” Akmal concluded.