Middle-order batsman Umar Akmal of Pakistan has talked honestly about his difficulties and coaching concerns with previous head coach Waqar Younis, saying he was criticized at key points in his cricket career.

In a recent comment, Akmal told a story in which Younis said, “You’ve begun to play T20-cricket in Tests,” rather than praising him for reaching a century in a Test match. Umar Akmal voiced his disappointment, saying that as a young athlete, such remarks made him feel discouraged.

He said that Younis once made an insulting remark, “Where’s your T20 cricket now?” after getting removed in the 2nd Test. Akmal highlighted the negative effects of this behavior and questioned the coaching staff’s strategy for developing young players.

Waqar Younis Not Happy With Akmal’s Brothers

Additionally, he said that Waqar Younis publicly questioned his brothers Kamran and Adnan Akmal’s presence on the squad and had problems with them.

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Umar Akmal recalled hearing remarks like “Will only these brothers play every game of cricket?” that looked to suggest favoritism. Akmal went on to say that Younis frequently questioned his footwear choices rather than his cricketing performance, which presented significant coaching issues for him as a young player.

Umar Akmal thanked the experienced players who helped and pushed him to play his natural game in spite of these obstacles. He acknowledged that their suggestions helped him in overcoming depression and maintaining his performance focus. Mohammad Rizwan already responded to the criticism of his poor English.

During the current “white-ball tour” of New Zealand and the Champions Trophy 2025, the wicket keeping batsman was criticized for knowing every word in English.

In response to the trolls, Mohammad Rizwan has stated that he is not embarrassed by the way he expresses his opinions in interviews.