Former chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Ramiz Raja has praised Umar Akmal after his recent innings against Islamabad United.
Akmal scored a blistering 43 off just 14 balls which was laced with 2 fours and 5 sixes to help Quetta Gladiators reach 179/6 from their 20 overs. His heroics were not enough as Islamabad United reached the target with 2 wickets to spare to keep the Gladiators at the bottom of the PSL 8 table.
Ramiz Raja, however, was full of praise for Umar Akmal but also lamented the wasted potential of the batter.
“Umar Akmal’s story is a literal definition of great talent but wasted talent, unfortunately. However, there is a lesson for all the players, if you are not disciplined and if you cannot zip your mouth while playing, then there is a larger probability that you will be at the receiving end of injustice- quite an unfortunate scenario,” Ramiz opined.
“He was one of my favourite players when he started cricket, and we all saw a glimpse today of how much talent he carries” he added.
Raja also expressed hope that Akmal may be able to recuperate his value and make a comeback in the team.
“I am not sure what the future holds for him – will he be able to become an asset for us or not, but in today’s date, there is no bigger match-winner than Umar Akmal in Pakistan – playing at 6 or 7″.
Umar Akmal has not represented Pakistan since October 7th 2019 and with other talents quickly emerging, may not be able to don the famous green shirt again.
But if the 32-year-old manages to keep up the form which he showed in the last game, he may be able to change that narrative.
