Inzamam accepts responsibility for World Cup debacle

An emotionally charged Inzamam-ul-Haq Saturday accepted the responsibility for Pakistan's pathetic performance in the World Cup, but attacked the media for harsh criticism of the players.

"I admit responsibility for the defeats in the World Cup, and beg pardon from the nation for the debacle," said Inzamam, who relinquished captaincy after the debacle, at his first press conference after the team's return from the West Indies.

Inzamam had also announced his retirement from one-day cricket after Pakistan crashed out of the tournament, having lost two of the three group matches, including the shock defeat by minnows Ireland.

Inzamam also took the Pakistani media to task for castigating the players after the unexpected ouster from the 16-team tournament.

"If the media and people keep on criticising the team, I am sure we can't win any big tournaments. Fear of losing always follow our players and it puts them under a lot of pressure," he said angrily.

"Wasn't I a citizen of Pakistan? Didn't I serve this country for 17 years? Is this what I deserved?" he asked the packed press conference at the Pakistan Cricket Board headquarters at the Gaddafi Stadium.

Inzamam also hit back at suggestions that the match-fixing and betting had a hand in the defeats and the murder of the team coach Bob Woolmer a day after Pakistan was ousted.

He said it was "unfair" to level such allegations.

"The team over the past three-and-a-half years had been playing and winning matches. There were no such comments (then). Now, they are spreading such rumours," he said.

The Jamaica police said that Woolmer was murdered in his hotel room in Kingston, and he was declared dead in a local hospital March 18, a day after Pakistan stunningly lost to Ireland.

Inzamam was also critical of the Sabina Park pitch for the Ireland match.

"The wicket was very difficult for batting. It was a green-top pitch. I had never seen such a wicket in the World Cup. The match became dependent on the toss. Unfortunately, we lost the toss and Ireland used it to their full benefit," he said.

Personally, Inzamam was hopeful about his Test career, which he is keen to continue.

"If the selectors give me a chance, I am willing to play Test matches because I think age is no barrier in Pakistan cricket," he said.

"All I wish is that my Test career ends on a happier note than my one-day career."

(IANS)

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