Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Peshawar Zalmi have patched up with Kamral Akmal, confirming that the veteran wicketkeeper-batter will play for the side next season.
Kamran Akmal, the 39-year-old veteran of 53 Tests, 157 ODIs and 58 T20Is, who had been an integral part of Zalmi for six-year, had recently urged the franchise to release him as he didn't "deserve to play in the silver category".
"As far as the category is concerned, I was not happy when it was initially announced. I was very surprised to see my category demotion despite my good track record. The lower categories are better suited for youngsters," Akmal had said.
Peshawar Zalmi have announced that wicket-keeper batter Kamran Akmal has agreed to represent Peshawar Zalmi in PSL 7 after a meeting with Mohammad Akram.#PSL7 #PSL2022 pic.twitter.com/la76Sf87ze
— Cricket Pakistan (@cricketpakcompk) December 14, 2021
However, on Wednesday Akmal confirmed to espncricinfo.com that the differences had been ironed out and he would continue playing for Zalmi.
"For me self-respect is foremost and it's not about money," Akmal said. "Had it (been) about more money I could have left Zalmi long ago but they are like a family and I never imagined leaving them. It's the process that basically was surprising and how the board disregards the senior cricketers.
"It's hurtful as it's a domestic tournament and I am not done yet. It's the passion for the game that kept me going and the performance that matters. I am not looking at the international level as I know I don't deserve it but at PSL I think I deserve a lot at this level. Zalmi is my pride and I will be playing for them," Akmal added.
"We have a great respect for Kamran," Mohammad Akram, Zalmi's head coach said.
"Picking him in the silver category was a part of our strategy as draft dictates who you pick at what stage. We had the right-to-match card with us and we saved it for him in case any team could have tried to pick him. So when you have a tool to protect your player you make sure that he isn't hurt money-wise," he added.