Karachi, January 20: Wasim Akram has expressed surprise over the appointment of Eric Simons as bowling consultant for the Indian team.
“Who is this guy? I never heard of Simons before,” Akram told PTI. “I read his [Simons’] name in the morning papers and was surprised at the choice. I don’t know if he possesses any exceptional coaching skill.
If he does, then it’s good for India.”
The BCCI had appointed Simons only for the two Tests in Bangladesh and the subsequent home-series against South Africa. Akram questioned the decision to award Simons a short-term contract, which he believes will not be of much benefit to the team.
“These short stints will certainly not help the players. If I tell a few things to the players for a period of two weeks, then I will have to ensure that they are followed or implemented for some time. Only then a coach will get the desired results,” Akram said. “I feel a coach should stay with the boys for a minimum period of six to eight months and only then the bowling will show improvement.”
Akram was also critical of the trend of sub-continental teams looking for foreign coaches and specialists. “I don’t understand the fact why do Asian teams employ foreign coaches? And if a South African coach is appointed then why does he bring along a South African guy for the fielding or bowling coach’s role,” Akram said. India is currently coached by Gary Kirsten, a South African, while Paddy Upton, a prominent member of the support staff is also from the same country. In addition to Simons, Allan Donald, former South African fast bowler, was also in the fray for the bowling consultant role.
“A home coach can not only impart good knowledge to the players but can also gel with the players and talk to them in their own language,” Akram said.
——-Agencies