Prodigiously talented, Umer Akmal is proving to be the prodigal son of Pakistan cricket. His sublime skills have never been in doubt, but question marks over his temperament keep piling, at a higher rate than his recent run- scoring.
And he gave another cleaver for his critics with a highly injudicious shot Sunday, that probably turned tide of the second Test. Even his most ardent supporter was left hanging his head in shame as Umer virtually gifted his wicket away, at a time when Pakistan most - needed him to stay.
Inthikab Alam, the Pakistan manager, was sitting the press box when that happened. He looked exasperated and could even be forgiven for feeling suicidal as a staunch supporter of Pakistan cricket. Any fan, of any team in any sport would have been nauseous by such nonchalance.
"This is definitely an irresponsible shot and we may consider fining him," Intikhab said at the moment. "I am really disappointed at the way he hit that wild shot."