by Geordie Ahmed

 

 

PakPassion.net has been informed that young Pakistani batsman Umar Akmal had a genuine injury problem prior to the 3rd test against Australia at the start of the year.

Umar Akmal was at the centre of an injury row in which he was accused by some sections of the media of faking an injury prior to the third test in Australia, in a political move in response to his elder brother, wicket-keeper Kamran Akmal being dropped from the side. Even Australia captain Ricky Ponting waded in during the controversy and questioned the highly promising young batsman.

Mark Raisbeck, who is the manager of Umar Akmal confirmed to PakPassion.net that "Umar had a genuine issue with his lower back during the series against Australia. Umar received treatment and advice through the correct channels with the Pakistan team's medical staff and a subsequent specialist. This matter was a medical and fitness related issue."

The 19 year old Umar Akmal has been Pakistan's best batsman during the last 9 months. He scored a wonderful 129 on debut against New Zealand last year. In his short test career he averages an impressive 48.16 from 6 test matches and has looked equally impressive in the shorter formats of the game, averaging 41.50 from 15 ODI's and 31.80 at a SR of 103.90 in the 6 T20's he has played.

The young star was recently one of seven players reprimanded by the PCB for disciplinary problems during the Australia tour. Along with a fine of Rupees Two Million, a warning has been issued to him by the Chairman of the PCB and he has been put on probation for six months, during which his conduct will be strictly monitored.

The player himself wants to put the matter behind him and focus on the future, he spoke to PakPassion.net stating "I am very keen to put this matter behind me and concentrate solely on playing cricket for Pakistan. My sole focus is preparing to retain the T20 World Cup with Pakistan in May."