Pakistani cricketer Umar Akmal was seen at former prime minister Nawaz Sharif’s London residence this past Friday.
The sudden rendezvous set the rumour mill churning about the possibility of Akmal joining the political ranks of Pakistan Muslim League – Nawaz (PML-N).
After the meeting, Akmal addressed the media, expressing his gratitude to the former prime minister for accommodating him. “I am thankful to Nawaz Sharif for taking out time for me. It’s an honour for me,” Akmal remarked. Despite the growing curiosity, he kept the details of his “special request” to Nawaz Sharif under wraps.
Akmal was optimistic when he was quizzed about his views on the current state of cricket in Pakistan. He hoped the sport’s prospects would further brighten with Nawaz Sharif’s return to Pakistan. Speaking of his aspirations, the national cricketer hinted at a comeback by asserting his maintained fitness levels.
It’s worth recalling that in 2020, Umar Akmal faced suspension under the PCB Anti-Corruption Code, only to be reinstated for domestic cricket in 2021.
Recent Athlete-Political Interactions
Umar Akmal isn’t the first cricketer to interact with the former prime minister. Last year, all-rounder Faheem Ashraf also had an audience with Nawaz at the same London residence. Faheem, absent from ODI cricket since 2021, made the news recently after being included in Pakistan’s squad for the forthcoming Afghanistan series and the Asia Cup.
For cricket enthusiasts, the Pakistan squad is prepping in Sri Lanka for a series against Afghanistan, with matches slated for August 22, 24, and 26.
