By Bipin Dani
SHARJAH
(TheSportsNext) August 26, 2012: Mohammad Akram, new coach of the Pakistan
cricket team, had to cancel his commentary assignments, which he was supposed
to do for the Afghanistan-Australia match.
"Yes, I have been doing commentary for TVs since last
four years but with this new position at the PCB (Pakistan Cricket Board), I
would not be doing this anymore", he told TheSportsNext exclusively from London.
"I am yet to speak to any of the players about this job
as it was just finalised yesterday, but will be joining them soon. I have to
wind up here before being based in Lahore> It will be a pleasure and honour
to work with the national team", he added. Ï have neither spoken to Dave
Whatmore, the Head Coach. I have one full year to interact with him and am
excited for the post", he further added.
The PCB had shortlisted the two coaches for the job. His
interview was taken by Javed Miandad and Intikhab Alam, it is learnt here. "Stuart Barnes was declined the job as
he was committed with the Bangladesh team and was unavailable till the first
week of October and we wanted someone who can join with the team in UAE and
also before the World Twenty and hence, Akram was given the chance"|, a
member of the coach finding committee said from Lahore.
Stuart Barnes holds the important position of bowling coach
but expanded his role in 2008 to focus on coaching the first XI. Recently
qualified with the prestigious Level Four Coaching qualification, Stuart is
highly regarded in United Kingdom as one of the top elite coaches.
Akram has passed Level III coaching, but has no regrets.
"I don't believe in this (coaching examinations etc.). The coaching is not
done on laptops but on the field of play. I have faith in my ability and am
confident about taking the team to the next level", he signed off.
Mohammad Akram has been appointed as bowling coach on a
one-year contract.
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