'I am not a fool' - Wasim Akram explains why he doesn't want to coach Pakistan

Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram has elaborated on why he does not want to take up coaching of the national team anytime soon. After calling it quits from cricket in 2003, the legendary cricketer had taken up a commentary stint. After that, he was involved in a coaching capacity and was part of the Indian Premier League (IPL) as a bowling coach for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Later he was also seen in the role of mentoring in the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

The former fast bowler has tremendous amount of experience in coaching but strangely, he is not ready to coach the Pakistan national team. Earlier, head coach Mishah-ul-Haq and bowling coach Waqar Younis stepped down from their respective roles. With a sound coaching track record, Akram could have been a suitable candidate.

For now, he does not have any plans and during a recent interaction on the Show, ‘Cricket Corner’ on Cricket Pakistan, Akram opened about why he is refusing to do coaching. “When you become the coach, you need to give at least 200 to 250 days a year to the team and that’s a lot of work. I don’t think I can manage so much work away from Pakistan, from my family. And as it is, I spend time with most of the players in the PSL, they all have my number and they keep asking for advice,” Akram said in the interview to Cricket Pakistan.

Akram further opined that misbehavior from Pakistani fans is the one thing he can’t tolerate and that is the primary reason for not taking up the offer. “I am not a fool. I keep on hearing and seeing on social media how people misbehave with their coaches and seniors. The coach isn’t the one playing. The players are the ones playing. The coach can only help with the planning. So, if the team loses, I don’t think the coach is as responsible or accountable as we hold him as a nation.”

I have never seen misbehavior happen in other countries: Wasim Akram

Akram concluded by saying he loves fans and supporters but cant’ take misbehavior shown on social media. “So, I’m afraid of that as well, because I can’t tolerate anyone misbehaving with me. And we are becoming like that. I love the people, their enthusiasm and passion for the game, but not the misbehavior that is shown on social media. It shows what we are. I have never seen this happen in other countries.” Akram added.