“I am now determined to come back more than ever”

Image courtesy of: Zimbio

Umar Akmal has apologised to all those that have supported him after he was axed from Pakistan’s Champions Trophy squad.

Akmal was made to return home from England after failing two fitness tests in two days and was subsequently replaced by batsman Haris Sohail.

The 27-year-old will no doubt be disappointed to miss out on the tournament, which begins next Thursday, but added that he will use the setback to return stronger and fitter than ever.

“Firstly, I want to wish Haris Sohail best of luck,” he said. “I also want to thank Inzi bhai [Inzamam] for conducting a fitness Test in Pakistan. I was also appointed captain of the Punjab team in the Pakistan Cup. Cricket is my bread and butter, and therefore I will try and fulfil whatever requirements the PCB has to allow me to return. Regardless of whether I’m with the team or not, my best wishes will always be with them.

“I want to ask forgiveness of all fans who have been hurt by my conduct. I am ready to commit to cricket. I still have a lot of cricket left in me and I aim to make another international comeback. I am even more focused on cricket now. My role model is Younis Khan, and even when he faced difficulties, he became even more determined. In the same way, I am now determined to come back more than ever.”

Akmal had returned to the national team for the Champions Trophy after missing out on their recent tour of the West Indies. However, he will now have to prove his fitness before having any chance of playing international cricket again.