'If teams don't want to come, let them not' – Wasim Akram on New Zealand, England’s cancellation of Pakistan tour

The cancellation of England and New Zealand’s tour of Pakistan has left many members of Pakistan cricket fraternity in disappointed and Wasim Akram is no different. Speaking on the matter, the legendary pacer urged fans of Pakistan cricket to support their national team in this time of crisis. He also said if the Men in Green do well at the international arena, other teams will run behind them.

For the unversed, New Zealand and England were scheduled to play white-ball games in Pakistan before the high-voltage T20 World Cup in 2020. However, both sides pulled out due to different reasons. New Zealand, after landing in Pakistan, abandoned the tour due to security concerns. On the other hand, England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) cited physicial and mental well being of players behind their decision.

Like many, Akram is also disappointed by the way things unfolded. However, the former Pakistan captain believes if Babar Azam’s men perform well in the T20 World Cup, the attitude and perspective of other sides will change.

I am equally disappointed, equally down and equally sad: Wasim Akram

“I know you’re all very disappointed with New Zealand and England when they cancelled their tours. Especially New Zealand, for cancelling it at the last moment. I am equally disappointed, equally down and equally sad. But life has to go on. Like our chairman Ramiz Raja said, support Pakistan. The team they have picked for the World Cup, let’s support them for once,” Akram said in a video uploaded by Cricket Pakistan.

“We will criticize them (Pakistan team) later if the need arises and will figure out solutions too. But right now, we all need to come together as a unit and support out team. If teams don’t want to come, let them not. But if our side performs well, teams all around the world will run behind Pakistan. So all the best, Pakistan team. We are all behind you,” Akram added.

Meanwhile, PCB have named a pretty formidable 15-man squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup. With the tournament taking place in spin-friendly tracks of UAE and Oman, the Men in Green would be even more confident to make a significant mark. Notably, Pakistan had won the 2009 edition of the T20 World Cup.