Kamran Akmal Dejected Over ODI Snub, Vows To Return
Dec 31, 2016 at 1:15 PM
Pakistan wicket-keeper batsman Kamran Akmal has been left dejected after being ignored by the national selectors for the five-match ODI series against Australia, scheduled in January, despite being in prolific form in the ongoing domestic fixtures.
“It’s very shocking for me to not see my name in the team. I was confident of my selection after the PCB took my passport to register for an Australian visa and I am very disheartened over the snub,” Kamran said.
The seasoned campaigner has been at the forefront to cement his place in the side, but selectors had some different ideas to rely on before overlooking the achievements of the Lahore-born cricketer during the season.
“A player can only perform to force his way into the team again. I have performed in all formats of the domestic season and my form is for everyone to see,” Kamran added.
The 34-year-old Kamran questioned the national selection committee over his omission as he feels that he has done everything to become the favourite contender for the limited-overs series.
“I want to ask the selection committee and team management what else I need to do to return to the national team?” Kamran added.
However, the selection committee have also dropped leg-spinner Yasir Shah and fast-bowler Sohail Khan for the limited-overs series while recalling lanky pacer Mohammad Irfan.
Pakistan head coach Mickey Arthur has also opposed his selection after following the youth policy in the team.
“If the selection committee doesn’t have the power, then it should not be criticised for the side’s failures and only the team management should be held responsible,” Arthur remarked.
Earlier, Kamran’s insertion was strongly advocated by selection committee supremo and former Pakistan skipper Inzamam-ul-Haq for his outstanding effort with the bat in the first-class cricket Quaid-e-Azam Trophy and National One-Day Cup.
Kamran slammed five centuries in Quaid-e-Azam trophy this season while scoring 1035 at an average of 80. In the ongoing National One-Day Cup, he has scored 361 runs at an average of 51.
Passionate for the game, Kamran has vowed to continue his form while giving hundred percent on the field to earn much-awaited recall in the national side.
“I am not stopping here. I would continue the hard work until it pays off,” Kamran concluded.
The explosive batsman has appeared in 154 ODIs, 54 T20Is and 53 Tests for Pakistan.