Wasim Akram Alleges Conspiracy by Former Teammates Ahead of 1996 WC India Match

Islamabad: Legendary left-arm fast bowler Wasim Akram has made startling allegations against some of his former Pakistan teammates, claiming they conspired to endanger his life ahead of the 1996 World Cup quarter-final against India. Akram revealed that his teammates, fearing the wrath of Pakistani cricket fans if the team lost, had discussed pinning all the blame on him and even joked about throwing him under the bus.

Akram Missed the Quarter-Final

Akram had withdrawn from the 1996 quarter-final against India due to an injury, sparking criticism for over 30 years. Many accused him of deliberately declaring himself unfit, an allegation he has consistently denied. During a show, “Batana Hi Padega,” Akram described how he overheard several senior teammates plotting to blame him for a potential loss.

He said, “It was extremely shameful that former players spoke against me. The night before the match, I overheard 5–6 players in a room. As I passed by, one said, ‘Let’s put all the blame on Akram and see what happens later.’ They even talked about throwing me under the bus.”

Akram Insists It Was Genuine Injury

When questioned if he had faked the injury, Akram stated: “Boss, this wasn’t street cricket. I was representing Pakistan as captain, playing against India in India. Do you really think I could back out at the last moment? On the morning of the match, I took four injections to manage the pain, but the pulled muscles worsened, and I couldn’t bowl. Recovery would have required at least six to eight weeks.”

The 1996 WC Controversy

Akram suffered an abdominal muscle strain while facing New Zealand’s Dion Nash before the quarter-final. Despite efforts by Pakistan’s physiotherapists, he was unable to recover in time. His withdrawal fueled rumors that he had stepped back to avoid fan backlash if Pakistan lost. Akram insists that some teammates deliberately spread these rumors, forcing him to constantly defend his loyalty to the country.

While Akram went on to play against India in the 1992, 1999, and 2003 World Cups, the 1996 incident remains a controversial chapter in his illustrious career.