Wasim Akram says young Pakistani players need more support

“Pakistan lost one-day and Test series against Sri Lanka in August — their first international encounters in six months. India is playing too much cricket and so is Sri Lanka, and they are performing well,” said Wasim, who also hit out at a lack of infrastructure and shortage of junior-level tours.

The suspension of star spinner Saeed Ajmal, banned last month for an illegal bowling action, hit Pakistan hard.

“Pakistan’s attack is very weak without Ajmal and they will be all at sea whether to make spinning wickets for the Tests or make fast pitches, because both ways they are in trouble,” said Wasim.

Pakistan play a two-Test series against Australia, with the first match starting in Dubai on October 22.

“We have so much talent — look at Umar Akmal, Umar Amin, Asad Shafiq. But they are not learning from their mistakes and are not brave enough at this level,” said Wasim.

Fast bowling legend Wasim urged struggling one-day and Test captain Misbah-ul Haq to take a positive approach with the team, or step aside.

“I think Misbah should take brave and aggressive decisions but he is not doing that,” said Wasim of Misbah, who withdrew himself from the third and final one-dayer in Abu Dhabi on Sunday.

Misbah on Monday told AFP his one-day future was linked to his batting form.

“If any vice captain is ready to lead then Pakistan must say goodbye to him as far as one-day is concerned,” said Wasim. – AFP