Akram defends Ijaz, team from charges

Wasim8217;s teammates have been pelted with eggs back home, their houses stoned and their effigies burnt in the streets following the thrashing by Australia on June 20.

There have been allegations the Pakistanis threw the game and the latest claim suggests Ijaz Ahmed broke the team curfew the night before the Lord8217;s showpiece, staying at a nightclub in London until 3.50 a.m.

Akram, who has been playing lower league cricket in England, said: 8220;I have nothing to defend. There was no indecent behaviour by anyone.

8220;I was in charge together with the manager and everything about the behaviour of the team was fine.8221;

8220;This has been brought up by the press back home. It always happens. Forseveral months we were winning all the time and nothing was said.8221;

8220;They always vilify us when we lose. I told my players afterwards I was proud of them for beating some very good sides and reaching the final,8221; he added.

8220;These people should leave the team alone. I fear for the young players because they will be frightened to lose. When you are in fear you will not be able to win,8221; Akram told The Daily Mail.