Akram blasts Inzamam, terms him a 'dictator'

NEW DELHI: Cricketer-turned-commentator Wasim Akram has slammed Pakistan's former captain Inzamam-ul-Haq, saying his "dictatorial" ways contributed to the team's decline in recent times.

"Inzy definitely had become a dictator. He had obviously become very powerful," Akram said.

"I know for a fact that Bob Woolmer and the foreign back-up staff would approach him for leave. I have seen senior PCB officials sitting at his residence and awaiting orders. These things are not good for cricket," the legendary all-rounder said.

"For any captain, he must first win the trust of his teammates, get some victories under his belt and power will automatically come. You don't have to clamour for power," Akram said.

Akram also backed Shoaib Malik as Pakistan's next captain.

With Younis Khan reportedly declining to take up the captaincy, Akram said Pakistan have little to choose from.

"The only ones who can handle the job are Mohammed Yousuf and Shoaib Malik. Shoaib Malik is a good choice. He is young and he is talented," Akram said.

"We should back him and groom this lad. I don't think we have much of a choice, if Younis is not interested."

Younis reportedly told the Pakistan Cricket Board two days ago that he was not inclined to take over from Inzamam, who stepped down following the team's exit from the World Cup.

According to reports, Younis wanted complete authority in running the team, which the PCB was not willing to give him.