[WATCH] Wasim Akram slams political interference in cricket, calls for unity
Wasim Akram urges cricket boards to keep politics out of the game, calling for unity, fair selection, and renewed India-Pakistan ties at the Cricket Impact Summit 2025.
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Legendary Pakistan fast bowler Wasim Akram has once again voiced his disappointment over the growing influence of politics in cricket. Speaking at the Cricket Impact Summit & Expo 2025 in Santa Clara, California, the “Sultan of Swing” made a heartfelt appeal for keeping the game pure and inclusive. “What I dislike about cricket is the involvement of politics,” Akram said. “Sports should always stay separate from politics. Teams should have the courage to pick players from any nation and think bigger, but sadly, that’s not happening.”
Akram, who represented Pakistan in 104 Tests and 356 ODIs, said the spirit of cricket is being diluted by off-field agendas. In an engaging conversation with former England cricketer Ebony Rainford-Brent, he emphasized that cricket should be a bridge between nations rather than a victim of their differences. “During my playing days in the ’80s and ’90s, the India-Pakistan rivalry was fierce, but we were friends off the field,” he recalled. “We shook hands, shared jokes, and respected each other, even when political tensions were high. Our job as players was to promote harmony. The people would follow our example.”
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Akram urges unity and fair governance as cricket’s global reach widens
The former Pakistan captain expressed disappointment over the lack of bilateral series between India and Pakistan since 2012. While the teams have occasionally met in ICC tournaments, full-fledged series have been halted due to strained diplomatic relations. “I hope to see a Test series between India and Pakistan in my lifetime,” Akram said with optimism.
Beyond cross-border issues, Akram also criticized political interference within cricket boards. He has previously called out the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for inconsistent selections and leadership changes, arguing that frequent reshuffles harm team stability. “Decisions should be made on performance, not connections,” he remarked earlier this year.
As cricket expands into new regions such as the United States, Akram believes the game must uphold its core values of fairness, unity, and respect. “Cricket has the power to unite, not divide,” he concluded. “If we can keep politics out of it, the sport will only grow stronger.”
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