Wasim Akram, an once in a life-time cricketer, was the greatest left-hand fast bowler to have graced the game. He could swing the ball both ways with ease and went on to be called the ‘sultan of swing’. Wasim Akram was a ‘dream’ player and joy to watch. He was a kind of player, many would want to become.
Akram was quick, could swing the ball both ways, and all the qualities which could make a fast bowler ‘great’. He was the first bowler to hit the 500-wicket mark in the 2003 World Cup and was ranked above Allan Donald, Glenn McGrath, Waqar Younis, Joel Garner and Muttiah Murlitharan by Wisden.
Wasim Akram has said he could dismiss Misbah-ul-Haq in four balls: Islamabad United’s Strategy Manager Hassan Cheema
Islamabad United’s Strategy Manager Hassan Cheema, while speaking to England fast bowler Steven Finn claimed that, once Wasim Akram told him that he could dismiss former Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq in four deliveries. Cheema recalled that the Pakistan legend had made this statement on the sidelines of a training session of his franchise.
“Why doesn’t Finn get him [Misbah] out every other ball? He is a four-ball batsman. I know how to get him out in four balls,” Wasim Akram was quoted as saying by Cheema.
Post retirement, Akram continues to work as a commentator and an expert for official broadcasters. He has also taken up coaching assignments in the IPL and PSL. Akram has been quite active on his social media accounts as well.
Akram retired with 414 wickets in Tests and 502 in ODIs. He also claimed a massive 31 five-wicket hauls in his decorated international career.