Kamran Akmal Blasts PCB Over 'Corruption Dripping' & Shoddy Kits Amidst Handshake Furore

Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Kamran Akmal has launched a scathing attack on the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), accusing the governing body of rampant corruption and negligence. Akmal's fiery remarks came in response to the alarmingly low-quality kits provided to the Pakistan U19 team, a situation he believes is symptomatic of deeper issues within the board, all while a separate controversy brewed over a seemingly frosty handshake between national stars Babar Azam and Imad Wasim.

Akmal did not mince words, directly pointing fingers at the PCB for what he termed 'corruption dripping' from its operations.

He expressed profound disappointment and anger over the state of affairs, particularly highlighting the stark contrast between the PCB's financial management and that of other leading cricketing nations. "The PCB takes funds from the government while other boards are self-sufficient. They don't have basic facilities," Akmal stated, underscoring his belief that mismanagement and graft are stymieing the development of cricket at its grassroots level.

The issue of substandard playing kits for the U19 squad struck a raw nerve for Akmal.

He argued that such neglect not only affects player morale but also reflects poorly on Pakistan cricket's international image. He emphasized the importance of investing in young talent, lamenting that instead, the board seems to be failing even on basic provisions. His critique extended to the PCB's overall structure and accountability, calling for greater transparency in its financial dealings and operational decisions.

This sharp criticism from Akmal arrives on the heels of another incident that has captivated the Pakistani cricket fraternity: the rather unusual handshake between Babar Azam and Imad Wasim during a Pakistan Super League (PSL) match.

The brief, seemingly reluctant exchange between the two star players quickly became a talking point, fueling speculation about underlying tensions. While distinct from the kit controversy, this incident inadvertently amplified Akmal’s call for a more harmonious and professionally managed cricketing environment.

Akmal’s powerful indictment serves as a wake-up call, urging the PCB to prioritize the welfare and development of its players, from the U19 level to the national team.

He stressed that without addressing the fundamental issues of alleged corruption and mismanagement, Pakistani cricket risks falling further behind its international counterparts. His message is clear: clean up the board, invest in the future, and restore integrity to the nation’s beloved sport.