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Wasim Akram is not afraid to call out his country folks when it comes to respecting their heroes.

Boxer Muhammad Waseem made his return to his home country after defeating Philippines’ Conrado Tanamor in Dubai last week but his victory as well as his arrival back home went largely unnoticed.

"Nobody from the boxing federation or the government came to welcome me at the airport," Waseem had said about the matter. The boxer had even dedicated the win to Kashmir.

When news spread about the lack of celebration of his return, the boxer made sure to bring up the fact that it's not about a fancy protocol but respect.

"I'm not fighting to get istaqbals at the airport. I'm fighting so that Pakistan gets good istaqbal all over the world. Every fight, every camp, every training, every tour, is another opportunity for me to show the boxing world the world class boxing talent Pakistan has."

His words definitely left an impact on many, including Wasim Akram, who immediately responded to the boxer's tweet, apologising for the lack of love and respect given to him for his win and at his return.

Wasim made sure to apologise "on the behalf of Pakistan", sharing: "Sometimes we as a country need to be 'smacked on the face' with the fist of reality to wake us up and remind us how we should be treating our hero’s."

He made sure to add, "I’m picking you up from the airport next time myself! Massive congratulations on the win!"

Muhammad Waseem immediately wrote back to the former cricketer, thanking him for his heartfelt words.

It's true that we don't really pay attention to our athletes and their achievements unless they're related to cricket. Maybe it's time we celebrate all accomplishments that bring Pakistan to the spotlight all over the world.