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Wasim Akram calls on IPL to lift Pakistan ban
Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) bowling consultant Wasim Akram is hoping Pakistani players will be able to play in future editions of the Indian Premier League.
Following the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, Pakistani players have been barred from playing in the IPL following a disagreement between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). But former Pakistani skipper, who claimed 916 wickets in 460 internationals, hopes this will change.
“I hope in near future Pakistani players will be able to participate because we (Pakistan) have great talent,” he said after KKR practised at the Nursery Oval in Abu Dhabi ahead of their opener against Mumbai Indians on Wednesday.
“We have players like Saeed Ajmal, who would be perfect in these conditions. We have Umar Akmal, and Shahid Afridi, who also would be perfect because this is their ‘home’ ground.
“But that’s the decision between the two cricket boards and I can only say that politics shouldn’t be interfering with sports.”
Having rejoined the Knight Riders for this year’s IPL edition after being part of the franchise from 2010 to 2012, the 47-year-old insists Kolkata’s bowlers have enough quality to pose a threat.
“We have one of the best spinners in the world with Sunil Narine,” said the Pakistan bowling legend. “We have Yusuf Pathan (who bowl’s off-spin) and Shakib Al Hasan (left-arm spin). There is also Morne Morkel, Pat Cummins and Umesh Yadav, who really should be playing for India.
“We also have the young Kuldeep Yadav who is very different. Overall we have a good blend of youth and experience.
“Ability wise the talent is there. It’s all about giving them the confidence.
“As a coach or a mentor, I can help by giving them confidence by talking to them (about how to improve their bowling),” he said.
The Pakistan fast bowling legend is impressed with the mindset of the Kolkata squad.
“They are a new bunch of boys and what I have seen in one day is that they are all in good shape and are in good frame of mind,” said Akram.
“That means they are relaxed and want to win.
“I have no doubt that with the ability in this team we have every chance of doing well."
Speaking of the conditions, he believes the UAE pitches will provide plenty of runs as well as a number of wickets.
“The ball will come nicely on the bat which is good for the Twenty20 format.
“In T20, people come to watch entertainment and that is sixes, fours and wickets and I believe the UAE pitches are perfect for that.”
Among the KKR players is former South Africa international Jacques Kallis, who Akram described as a “phenomenal” player.
“Kallis has been phenomenal. He’s the best all-rounder I’ve seen in the game.
“He’s very calm. With him in this team, he is an ideal role model for youngsters.
“If he goes as the opener, he can go and play the full 20 overs and be useful with the ball.”
