Akram supports Team India's probe by BCCI

Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram termed BCCI's decision to probe India's series loss in England as a welcome move but also insisted that it shouldn't be a "one-sided investigation".

Wasim Akram also felt that India don't have the players to replace Tendulkar, Dravid and Laxman. © AFP

"I understand the BCCI is going to probe the reasons for the Test humiliation. While it is a welcome move, I only hope that it will not be a one-sided investigation. Wealth should not blind wisdom," Akram wrote in his column for a website.

During the recent working committee meeting of the board, it was decided that outgoing president Shashank Manohar and president-elect N Srinivasan will investigate the reasons of defeat.

The legendary pacer also feels that there will be loads of theories like fatigue, injuries, lack of application, work ethics but he is not convinced that India have players to replace Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid or VVS Laxman.

"Fatigue, injuries, lack of application and work ethics are the many factors that have been doing the rounds, but the one thing that worries me is whether India have the talent to replace their veterans like Tendulkar, Dravid, Laxman and Sehwag. Therefore, the Rainas, Kohlis and the Rohit Sharmas have miles to go. It will be a tough call for the selectors."

Akram was forthright in his column that England deserved to be the No 1 ranked Test nation.

"England deserve to wear the world No 1 crown. They have played as a team, backed each other and have told the world that Indians are not invincible. If you don't respect conditions and take things for granted, you will pay a price and India have done just that."

Akram also felt that Sehwag was a big disappointment at Edgbaston.

"Sehwag was a disappointment. You can't do miracles in cricket when you are not in touch with the game, and definitely not in English conditions."

"Sehwag's mindset at Edgbaston was rusty. He was probably caught between his natural explosive self and the pressure of expectations and pitch occupation. He will be more at ease at the Oval where the wicket will be more like the sub-continent tracks," he stated.

Akram critcised BCCI's planning especially how RP Singh was drafted into the team.

"BCCI planning has been criticized in the media. RP Singh's late arrival for the third Test is a case in point. It's been a paid holiday for him and even if he plays the fourth Test, don't expect him to make miracles."

"I am sure BCCI will learn from this England tour and if India have to reclaim their No 1 status, the Indian Board will have to do some serious soul searching. After all, India's top status will only ensure longevity for Test cricket."

About the upcoming Test match that starts on Thursday, Akram doesn't see too many changes in the playing XI.

"I don't see too many changes in the Indian XI. The Oval will help the spinners and I think Dhoni will opt for Amit Mishra, who has disappointed me. I had backed Mishra in place of Harbhajan, but then India's overall bowling has been toothless. At this rate, it will be difficult to bowl out England twice in a Test match."