Pakistan cricketer Umar Akmal became emotional while reflecting on the challenging phase of his career, marked by a ban imposed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) due to breaching the anti-corruption code.
During an interview, Akmal’s eyes welled up as he recollected the trying times he endured while under the ban. “No one, not even my enemies, should have to face the time that I did. Allah tests a person by giving or taking something,” Akmal expressed with visible emotion.
He further shared, “During the dark times, many individuals showed their true colors and distanced themselves from me. However, I am grateful for those who remained steadfast by my side.”
Akmal elaborated on the hardships he encountered, revealing a heart-wrenching moment when he couldn’t afford to provide a burger for his daughter or pay her school fees. His voice quivered as he recounted, “For eight months, I couldn’t send my daughter to school, but my wife stood by me through those challenging days.” He admitted that tears well up in his eyes whenever he reminisces about those moments.
Acknowledging his wife’s unwavering support, Akmal expressed his gratitude, saying, “My wife was born into privilege, yet she assured me of her constant support, no matter how dire the situation. I’m truly thankful to her for this.”
The 33-year-old cricketer, who last participated in an international match in 2019, conveyed his determination to stage a comeback and represent Pakistan once again through hard work and dedication.
Akmal’s ban was instituted by the PCB in 2020 due to violations of anti-corruption regulations. Initially handed a three-year suspension, he pursued an appeal with the International Court of Arbitration, which led to a reduction of his sentence to 12 months.
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The candid interview sheds light on the personal struggles that Umar Akmal faced during a period of turmoil in his career. His emotional response underscores the toll that such challenges can take on an individual, even a professional athlete. Akmal’s story serves as a reminder of the human aspect behind the headlines and the perseverance required to overcome setbacks. As he works towards his goal of returning to the cricket field, his journey resonates as a tale of resilience and hope in the face of adversity.
