Pakistani cricketer Umar Akmal has expressed regret over former teammate Zulqarnain Haider’s alleged return to troubling behaviour, despite receiving support from Akmal during a difficult time.
During an appearance on a local television show, Akmal said he had considered legal action against Haider but ultimately decided against it, keeping in mind Haider’s financial difficulties. He stressed that he held no personal grudge and had acted out of compassion.
Akmal revealed that in 2022, when Haider faced a life-threatening illness, he was among the first to visit him. Despite their strained past, he even extended financial help to the former wicketkeeper. He credited his wife for encouraging him to take that step, noting that the gesture was intended to move past their differences.
However, Akmal shared that since Haider’s recovery, the same troubling patterns have reportedly re-emerged. Although disheartened, Akmal maintained that he would continue to look at the situation with a positive mindset.
Read More: PSL Adjusts Multan Fixtures After Broadcasters Raise Logistical Concerns
The two players have had a difficult relationship, with Haider previously accusing Akmal of playing a role in harming his career. Their attempt at reconciliation in 2022 was seen as a hopeful sign that their feud might be ending.
Zulqarnain Haider’s own cricketing career has long been marked by controversy. In 2010, he unexpectedly left the Pakistan team during a tour in the UAE, citing threats to his life. Although he returned to domestic cricket later, he never made it back to the national squad.
As of now, neither the Pakistan Cricket Board nor Haider himself has responded publicly to Akmal’s recent comments. The incident has once again brought attention to unresolved tensions between former players and the challenges they continue to face beyond the pitch.