Former Pakistan batter Umar Akmal has reignited his long-running feud with Waqar Younis, accusing the former head coach of ending his international career due to jealousy rather than performance issues.
Speaking on a local television program, the 35-year-old claimed that internal politics and personal grudges within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) kept him and his brother Kamran Akmal sidelined from both domestic cricket and the Pakistan Super League (PSL).
“Some people in the PCB don’t want us to play again. That’s why we’re not being picked in the PSL either,” Umar said, alleging that officials intentionally excluded him despite his fitness and availability.
Turning his criticism toward Waqar, Umar said the former fast bowler’s personal dislike for him led to his downfall.
“Waqar Younis ruined my career, not because of performance, but because of jealousy. He couldn’t tolerate my fame, my earnings, or my lifestyle,” Umar stated.
He added that while he respects Waqar as a player, his experience working under him as coach was disappointing. “In 2016, during the World Cup, I submitted a report suggesting that if he was removed, the team would improve,” Umar recalled.
The right-hander also hinted that other senior players had similar issues with Waqar but chose to remain silent. “He didn’t just target me; there were others too, but I don’t want to name them right now,” he said, adding that he has evidence to support his claims and will share it when the time is right.
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The rift between the two has persisted for years, resurfacing whenever Umar attempts to stage a comeback. Despite the controversies, the Lahore-born cricketer continues to train regularly and post workout videos on social media, signaling his desire to return to professional cricket.
