Former captains praise Wasim

Wasim Akram was showered with praise by former colleagues following his decision to end his 19-year international career, but Pakistan's selectors also came in for criticism over their handling of him.

Former captain Imran Khan, who mentored Wasim as an 18-year-old, hailed him as one of last century's greatest fast bowlers. "I reckon Wasim and West Indian Michael Holding are two of the best and most natural fast bowlers of the century," Imran told AFP.

Taking Wasim under his wing in 1984, Imran nurtured him until he became one of international cricket's most productive fast bowlers. "Grooming Wasim was the easiest thing because he was naturally gifted. All I ingrained in him was the ability to take wickets," said Imran, adding that the retirement decision was "the right thing."

But Imran accused the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) of ending Wasim's career in an undignified manner. "I do think the PCB should not have dumped him in such an unceremonious manner."

Another former captain, Zaheer Abbas, described Wasim as the "pride of Pakistani cricket." He continued: "Losing a player like Wasim is the most depressing thing. It will be hard to replace him."

But Aamer Sohail, Pakistan's chief selector, denied Wasim's decision was prompted by his expulsion. "We did not close the doors on any senior player. Wasim could have staged a comeback," he said. "Wasim was a great servant of Pakistani cricket and I pay him the richest of tributes."