Akram accuses Australia of 'double standards'

Wasim Akram, the former Pakistan fast bowler, has accused Australia of having "double standards" on security and has said they must tour Pakistan for September's Champions Trophy.

Though the ICC is happy with the current security situation in Pakistan, several players from Australia, New Zealand and England have expressed their concerns about visiting the country. The ICC's executive board will be meeting in Dubai later this month and the Full Member countries will discuss the security situation in Pakistan.

"I think the Australians have double standards," Wasim told AFP. "They played in England despite blasts in London in 2005 and four Australians were willing to play in India despite blasts in Jaipur last month.

"How can they create an opinion by sitting there in Australia? They said they don't want to come and (are) also trying to influence other teams," he said. "I am sorry, they are willing to play anywhere if they get money." He also wanted Australia to be fined by the ICC if they pulled out of the event.

Akram, however, agreed with Australia's decision to postpone a tour of Pakistan earlier this year because of safety concerns in the wake of a series of bomb blasts. "I was in Australia at that time and backed their decision because the news we were getting at that time was not conducive for cricket, but nothing is happening now and they themselves rescheduled the tour after getting assurances."

Akram also said the Asian countries must support Pakistan. "India have been supportive to Pakistan's cause, they have sent a team for the (ongoing) Asia Cup, so Asia must devise a system to help Pakistan and ensure that the (Champions) Trophy is held here," he said. "Pakistan cannot afford teams pulling out at the last minute. It will destroy Pakistan cricket."