Wasim Akram Says A Blunt 'No' To Coaching Pakistan Cricket Team, Choses To Coach Their Fiercest Rival Instead
Published - 30 Dec 2023, 03:21 PM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 10:20 AM
Former fast-bowler Wasim Akram has explained the reasons why he would not accept the role of Pakistan???s head coach. Widely regarded as one of the greatest pacers of all time, Wasim Akram is currently a part of the commentary panel for the ongoing three-match Test series between Australia and Pakistan.
The legendary bowler is not new to coaching. In 2010, he plied his trade as the bowling coach of IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders. He also worked as a coach in Pakistan fast bowling camps. In 2016 and 2017, Wasim Akram worked as director and bowling coach of PSL franchise Islamabad United.
Later, he worked with Multan Sultans as their director and bowling coach. At present, he is the chairman and bowling coach of Karachi Kings. Despite his coaching experience, Wasim Akram is not inclined to take on the role of coaching Pakistan.
Wasim Akram not willing to become Pakistan???s coach:
In a recent interview, Wasim Akram was asked which team, between Pakistan and Australia, he would prefer to coach. In reply, the former Pakistan captain, whose wife is an Australian, stated that he would like to coach Australia and also explained the reason behind it.
The Pakistan great stated that his preference is not influenced by personal reasons. He said that working with Australia would put less pressure on him and it would afford him a better opportunity to focus on his coaching responsibilities.
???If I get the option I will pick Australia. Not because of my wife, it???s because there will be less pressure and I will be able to do my job,??? Wasim Akram told Sportskeeda.
Wasim Akram asked if he would prefer to coach Pakistan or Australia:
Meanwhile, Wasim Akram recently revealed a hilarious incident that took place when he was playing against Australia at the MCG way back in 1989. The former Pakistan cricketer had fetched a five-wicket haul in each innings of the Test. After his impressive performance, he found himself targeted by Australian fans, although he mistakenly interpreted it as a compliment.
According to Wasim Akram, he could hear the MCG crowd chanting ???Wasim is a w****r???.
???At that time, I couldn???t get hold of the Aussie accent as it was my early days in Australia. So I was very happy and was waving at them. And then Imran came up to me, my captain. He said you know what they are saying. I said yes, they are saying you are a good player. Imran said no, they are saying you are a ???w****r???,??? he added.
