'I Ask For Forgiveness From The PCB And From Cricket Fans Around The World' : Umar Akmal Apologizes For His Wrongdoings

Beleaguered Pakistan batsman Umar Akmal has admitted he had failed to report corrupt approaches for which he faced harsh consequences from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Last year, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) suspended him for three months, which was later reduced to 12 months along with a fine of PKR 4.25 million. The 31-year old apologized for his mistake and revealed the period had been difficult for him.

Umar Akmal started promisingly in international cricket as he scored a century on Test debut in 2009 against New Zealand in Dunedin and almost scripted a memorable victory. The right-handed batsman did play some explosive knocks in white-ball cricket; however, the lack of discipline and too many controversies derailed his progress in international cricket. Akmal has so far featured in 16 Tests, 121 ODIs, and 84 T20Is. His last game for Pakistan came in October 2019.

Umar Akmal accepted that his mistake 17 months ago caused plenty of damage to Pakistan cricket and his own career and learnt a lot during that time. As a result, the 30-year old asked for forgiveness from the PCB and the fans worldwide.

“Seventeen months ago, I made a mistake which caused damage to my cricket and career. I learnt a lot during this time and due to that mistake Pakistan cricket’s reputation suffered badly. I ask for forgiveness from the PCB and from cricket fans around the world,” Akmal said in a video posted by the PCB.

I couldn’t play cricket despite being a cricketer: Umar Akmal

Umar Akmal revealed he failed to report corrupt approaches that led to a 12-month ban imposed by the PCB. The Lahore-born cricketer recalled the tough period as he was not able to play the sport despite being a cricketer and wants to apologize for all the disrepute he brought to Pakistan cricket.

“Some people approached me but I was unable to report the same to the anti-corruption unit, due to which I had to face a 12-month ban. I couldn’t play cricket despite being a cricketer. I learned a lot during this time and today I confess before all of you that that mistake brought disrepute to Pakistan Cricket,” he added.

Also Read: 6 Players With Most Hundreds In An ODI World Cup Edition