Lahore
Wicketkeeper-batsman Kamran Akmal expressed his frustration once more on Sunday at being snubbed by national selectors, questioning whether he would have to “ask Prime Minister Imran Khan” in order to return to the national fold.
The 38-year-old, in an interview with a local TV channel, said ‘the limit’ has been crossed with his continued omission from the squad.
“There is a limit. It has been five years. It was claimed that those who perform would be automatically selected. Should we go perform in the Indian or Australian system to get into the team? Who is going to check my performances in all formats? The prime minister?” Akmal lamented.
Referring to himself and batsman Fawad Alam, Akmal went as far as to claim that the selection process had no regard for merit.
“There are many players like me and Fawad Alam who are deserving. I have performed in the Pakistan Super League and have been a top performer in domestic formats.”
‘Hurt and heartbroken’
The cricketer reminded Chief Selector Misbah-ul-Haq of his own struggle to break into the national in early 2000s, imploring him to tighten the system’s loose bolts.
“Misbah knows how much struggle he did himself and he eventually got what he deserved so he should look at these things. Before this, Mickey Arthur’s favouritism had a negative effect on the national team,” he concluded.
Last week, the out-of-favour batsman had expressed that he was “hurt and heartbroken” following the squad announcement and took to Twitter to express his frustration. “[I am ]hurt and heartbroken for not being considered for the team. “ he tweeted, adding that “I have really worked hard.”—Agencies
