Umar Akmal arrived on the international stage with a massive boom. He scored 66 and 102* inside his first three ODIs in Sri Lanka in 2009 and then went on to score 129 and 75 on Test debut in New Zealand. But after that, it has been a sorry tale for Umar Akmal. His career has dropped to such a point that now he was not even considered for the selection in the world cup squad.
He was arguably the most talented batsmen who made debut in 2009. Still, no one raises questions over his talent. He is still accepted as the most gifted batsman of Pakistan. But somehow he has not been able to convert that promise into significant performances. He has only scored 2 centuries in 121 ODIs and only managed to achieve this feat once in his test career.
Reasons for failure of Umar Akmal
What is the reason that such a talented individual was unable to achieve his potential? Why was he not the next big gun for Pakistan Cricket team? Answer to all these questions lies in the in-depth analysis of his cricketing career. He was given ample opportunities by the Pakistan cricket team selectors but due to his nonserious attitude, he just threw them away.
He did not finish the games for Pakistan, He threw his wicket away without realizing its value, did not maintain his fitness and above all he was found in many different controversies that tarnished his career. Firstly he was found in fights with his coaches examples can be seen in the cases of Waqar Younis and Mickey Arthur.
Secondly, he broke most of the rules that were set in place by Pakistan cricket board for its players. A prime example can be seen in the recently completed ODI series in which after 4th ODI he went to attend Akon’s concert without informing the team management.
Talent not utilized is talent wasted. We like the rest of Pakistanis hope that he becomes gets mature, improves his fitness and makes a comeback in the Pakistan team. We hope that he becomes the next Inzamam ul Haq for Pakistan cricket and win number of matches for them. But without hard work and serious effort, Hope is just a word.
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