Pakistan Cricket Board has sought the services of Wasim Akram and Inzamam-ul-Haq, both former captains, in their preparation for tours to India and South Africa starting in December.
The decision was taken at an Executive Coordination Committee meet, according to Zaka Ashraf, the PCB President. “We have spoken to Wasim and Inzamam and both have given their consent to have specialised camps,” Ashraf was quoted as saying by an Indian news agency.
“The idea is that we utilise the services of these two great players to help our batsmen and bowlers prepare themselves not only for the coming tours to India and South Africa but also to allow our bench players to improve themselves.”
Pakistan are scheduled to play two Twenty20 Internationals and three One-Day Internationals in India, the first bilateral series between the sides since November-December 2007, before moving to South Africa for a full Test tour that will last till March, 2013. The duration and dates for the camps would be finalized keeping in mind the domestic schedule and availability of both players.
Akram is currently bowling coach of Indian Premier League side Kolkata Knight Riders, and a television commentator for broadcasters ESPN Star Sports. “We will give them a group of bowlers and batsmen and while Wasim will work with the bowlers, Inzamam will be helping out the batsmen,” Ashraf said.
“I am really heartened by the response of Wasim and Inzamam and their willingness to help the players. They have been great players and their experience will definitely help our players in India and South Africa.”