Kamran Akmal, Wahab Riaz disappointed at World Cup snub

LAHORE (Monitoring Desk): Wicket-keeper batsman Kamran Akmal and left-arm seamer Wahab Riaz have expressed their disappointment at not being included in Pakistan’s squad for the ICC Cricket World Cup.

Akmal stressed that along with himself, Fawad Alam, Wahab Riaz and Muhammad Irfan had been consistently performing well in domestic cricket but were not being noticed by selectors.

The batsman called upon the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to question coaches and selectors on why these players were not included. “It seems like I am performing outside the country,” Akmal said.

The elder Akmal also came to the defence of his younger brothers Umar and Adnan, stressing they had been mistreated and had plenty of cricket left.

Kamran was optimistic of Pakistan’s chances in the World Cup, saying the team had the potential to be ranked in the top three. Wahab Riaz said he was upset over not being included in the World Cup squad as players work hard for this opportunity.

However, when asked why he wasn’t selected, Riaz told reporters to pose this question to the selection committee.

“There are good times and bad times in cricket. Whenever I get the opportunity to play for the national side I will perform.”

The fast bowler said England was the strongest side for the World Cup and Pakistan was capable of performing well in the tournament.