Kamran Akmal criticizes PCB for prolonged exclusion of Mohammad Abbas

Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Kamran Akmal has criticized the Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) selection committee for sidelining pacer Mohammad Abbas for three years.

Speaking to a local media outlet, Akmal condemned the decision-making that excluded Abbas, despite his consistent performances in domestic and international cricket.

“Abbas’ performance will be remembered for a lifetime. His bowling has answered his critics emphatically,” Akmal said. He lauded the 34-year-old pacer's recent exploits in the first Test against South Africa, where Abbas claimed a remarkable 7/133 across both innings, including a pivotal six-wicket haul in the second innings.

Despite Pakistan’s narrow two-wicket defeat, Abbas’ heroics drew widespread praise from fans and analysts. Reflecting on the loss, Akmal commented, “If other bowlers had supported Abbas, the team could have won the match.”

The criticism of team selection extended beyond Akmal, with former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir also voicing his discontent. Taking to social media platform X, Amir slammed the coaching staff’s decision to sideline Abbas for years, stating, “Bring those coaches forward who dropped Abbas because of his pace. It took Abbas three years to make a comeback—a slap in their faces.”

Abbas' standout performance in the Test included dismantling South Africa's middle order on the final day. He removed key players such as Aiden Markram, Temba Bavuma, David Bedingham, and debutant Corbin Bosch in a dominant display of skill and control.

The pacer’s Test career now boasts 97 wickets in 26 matches at an impressive average of 22.73. His first-class record is even more remarkable, with 748 wickets to his name, underscoring his mastery of the longer format.

While South Africa’s win solidified their spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final, Pakistan’s defeat dealt a blow to India’s qualification hopes.

The second Test of the series is set to take place at Newlands Cricket Ground, Cape Town, from January 3 to 7. Pakistan will aim to regroup and deliver a strong performance to level the series. Meanwhile, the debate surrounding team selection and the treatment of players like Mohammad Abbas remains a focal point in Pakistani cricket.