Former fast bowler Wasim Akram has explained the reasons why he would not accept the job of Pakistan head coach. Widely regarded as one of the greatest pacers of all time, Wasim Akram is currently part of the commentary panel for the ongoing three-match Test series between Australia and Pakistan.
The legendary bowler is not new to the world of coaching. In 2010, he plied his trade as the bowling coach of the IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders. He also worked as a coach in Pakistan fast bowling camps. In 2016 and 2017, Wasim Akram worked as the director and bowling coach of the PSL franchise Islamabad United.
Later, he worked with Multan Sultans as director and bowling coach. Currently, he is the President and Bowling Coach of Karachi Kings. Despite his experience as a coach, Wasim Akram is not willing to take on the role of Pakistan coach.
Wasim Akram not willing to become Pakistan coach:
In a recent interview, Wasim Akram was asked which team between Pakistan and Australia he would prefer to coach. In response, the former Pakistan captain, whose wife is Australian, stated that he would like to coach Australia and also explained the reason.
The Pakistani great stated that his preference is not influenced by personal reasons. He said working with Australia would put less pressure on him and give him a better opportunity to focus on his coaching responsibilities.
“If I have the choice, I will choose 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:
“If I have the choice I will choose Australia. Not because of my wife, it is because there will be less pressure and I will be able to do my job” (via sportskeeda)#Cricket
—Saj Sadiq (@SajSadiqCricket) December 29, 2023
Meanwhile, Wasim Akram recently revealed a funny incident that took place when he was playing against Australia at the MCG back in 1989. The former Pakistan cricketer had taken a five-wicket haul in each innings of the Test. After his impressive performance, he found himself in the spotlight of Australian fans, although he mistakenly interpreted it as a compliment.
According to Wasim Akram, he could hear the MCG crowd singing. “Wasim is a bastard.”
“At the time, I couldn’t understand the Australian accent because it was my first few days in Australia. So I was very happy and greeted them. And then Imran approached me, my captain. He said you know what they’re saying. I said yes, they say you’re a good player. Imran said no, they are saying you are a ‘b*tch’.” he added.
