| Islamabad, Aug 19 (ANI): The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed former fast bowler Mohammad Akram as the national team's bowling coach. "After much debate and discussions, the PCB has chosen Mohammad Akram as the Pakistan bowling coach. They chose Akram as he has a good rapport with the current group of Pakistani cricketers, they know him, and he has experience of Pakistan domestic cricket, and also a lot of experience in county cricket," Pak Passion quoted a PCB source, as saying. "Akram will not just work with the current group of international bowlers, he will also be expected to work with the upcoming bowlers at the National Cricket Academy, as well as at grass roots levels with a particular emphasis on grooming and preparing the next generation of fast bowlers for Pakistan," the source added. Akram who played 32 matches for Pakistan between September 1995 and March 2001, was regarded as one of Pakistan's fastest bowlers at his peak. The 37-year-old took 36 wickets in those 32 international matches, including a Test best of 5 for 138. Akram also played for several high profile county teams in England. Akram, who has recently been coaching in the UK, was backed for the role by former wicketkeeper Rashid Latif and fast bowler Azhar Mahmood, both of whom felt that he was the right man for the job, given his experience of Pakistan cricket, his experience of English county cricket and his ability to interact with the current group of international players and upcoming cricketers in Pakistan, the source said. Akram is expected to commence the role as early as next month. (ANI) |