Out of favour Umar Akmal omitted yet again by national selectors

Former Pakistan middle order batsman, Umar Akmal has been overlooked yet again by the national selectors in the list of probables to attend the training camp for the upcoming series against Sri Lanka. Akmal was included in the Champions Trophy squad but was sent back home after failing the fitness test in England. Mohammad Hafeez and Ahmed Shehzad were also overlooked for the series.

Akmal, who last played an international match back in January against Australia at Adelaide, has missed out on a large chunk of international action due to fitness issues. He also had a lukewarm Pakistan Super League to go with it. Mohammad Hafeez and Ahmed Shehzad also have struggled with their form off-late, also missed the bus for the training camp.

Doors open for Imam and Asif

“The selectors, Arthur and the PCB Director of Cricket, Haroon Rasheed recently held a meeting to finalise the list of players who will be invited to the training camp for the Sri Lanka series. Unfortunately, the selectors and Arthur still feel that Umar needs more time to convince them he is ready for a national comeback,” said a source according to quotations by PTI. The retirements of Younis Khan and Misbah ul Haq has opened doors for Imam-ul-Haq and Bilal Asif.

“They are a couple of other young players the selectors are keeping an eye on like Imam-ul-Haq the nephew of chief selector, Inzamam ul Haq for the camp while it has been decided to also give a try to off-spinner Bilal Asif in Test and ODI formats,” added the source.

That said, while talking to Express Tribune, Akmal took all the blame for his contract not being renewed. “I don’t blame anyone, I am to blame for not getting the contract. I am now taking my fitness and training very seriously as I want to get back into the national team stronger and fitter,” commented Umar Akmal.