Pakistan pace legend Wasim Akram has opened up on why he never considered taking the Pakistan coach job, categorically stating that it is because of the criticism, abuse and hate that the coaches and captains receive in the country.

“I can accept criticism if the team is not doing well. But in Pakistan cricket, it is intolerable the way the captain and coaches are not only criticised but also abused by everyone,” Akram said in an interview, as quoted by PTI.

“The abuse and at times hate which the captain and coach have to bear, I don’t think I am up to it. I don’t have that tolerance level, especially when it comes to the use of social media. They are some people who I think only sit on Twitter day and night to send out negative comments.”

According to Akram, coaching a team in the PSL is completely different from coaching the national side.

“League cricket is different, the pressure and expectation levels are different, which is why I am involved with the Karachi Kings side in the PSL.”

“I am always willing to be of service to Pakistan cricket but not at the cost of having to bear unnecessary criticism and abuse from anyone out there.”

The 56-year-old also advised the PCB against sacking Babar Azam from captaincy in any format of the game.

“I think it will be a mistake. Because even if you change him as captain in any format it is not going to make any difference. What are the options. (It’s) best if he is supported by all of us, including the board. He is young and he will get better as captain. My thinking is that no one is born a natural captain and leader, these things come with time and experience.”

“As a nation, I think for once we need to be positive and back Babar. Let’s do it and see what happens. I am confident he will become a good captain.”

Akram said he was not happy to see the way pressure had been built around Babar in recent days.

“People in other countries laugh at our cricket culture. We need to start being more positive. Win and loss is part of the game.”

Akram also refused to comment on Ramiz Raja’s tenure as the PCB chairman.

“I don’t want to talk about him. There is a misconception that only a former cricketer should head the board… I don’t buy that because this is a job which requires a lot of administrative skills and the ability to have good communication with other boards etc,” he stated.

(With PTI Inputs)