Wasim Akram: In this day and age, using social media to express your views is common practice. And it is often said in harsh words. Even professional athletes and coaches shudder when things go well.
The problem of online abuse persists. And that is one of the main reasons why Pakistan rhythm bowling legend Wasim Akram never turned to train.
During an interview on CricketPakistan.com. The former sprinter explained why he never accepted a permanent coaching position on the national team.
“I can’t stand misbehavior from anyone and I am not stupid I see how people misbehave. And insult coaches/seniors on social media if the team is not doing well. I don’t think I have the patience for that,” he said.
Wasim said that while he could understand the passion of cricket fans. He could not understand the foul language and insults used on social media.
“I just think we need to ponder on. The fact that whatever we say on social media reflects on what we are,” he added.
The former left-arm fast bowler said people need to understand that coaches and supervisors can only plan, guide, and motivate players. But at the end of the day, players need to perform on the field.
“Sometimes you do well, sometimes you lose. But tell me do we see this sort of extreme reaction or misbehavior in other countries. Have you seen Ravi Shastri being treated this way on social media? It is pretty scary for me the way people behave on social media,” Akram said.
However, the former captain said that the Karachi Kings franchise was able to work with most of the Pakistan Super League players.
“So it is not as if I am totally cut off from the players. They call me when they want any help or advice and I love contributing to Pakistan Cricket,” he said.
Akram also dismissed the fears burnout concerns of the left-arm pacer, Shaheen Shah Afridi.
“I don’t think he will burn out, in fact, he is getting better. He has pace, height and knows how to swing the ball both ways with the new ball and he has now improved on his bowling sense, length and has got situational awareness. He is a great talent and he will take a lot of wickets for Pakistan,” he said.
“As far as rest is concerned I think just ask him whether he wants to rest but we should not try to copy other countries because our cricket culture and mindset is different.
“He is not playing too much county or other cricket he only plays for Pakistan so I think the more he plays he will only get better with time.
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