Wasim Akram to miss IPL 2017 due to professional commitments

Regarded as one of the greatest exponents of swing bowling, Akram has been part of the Kolkata-based franchise for last seven editions and helping them to two titles, in 2012 and 2014. He forged a lethal bowling line-up in KKR and his declaration of missing the tenth edition must have come as a stumbling block for the Kolkata side.

Kolkata Knight Riders, in a press release, said, "Bowling Coach and Mentor, Wasim Akram will miss the upcoming IPL 2017 season. The legendary all-rounder has cited professional commitments and time constraints for his inability to be part of KKR for the upcoming season."

Akram also shared his emotions for not being a part of the tenth edition of the cash-rich league. 

"I have loved the camaraderie in KKR team and have enjoyed every opportunity to mentor the highly talented team over the years. I am surely going to miss being part of the dressing room but I wish the team continued success."

KKR's MD and CEO Venky Mysore said that KKR will miss the services of Akram big-time.

"We will miss Wasim Bhai who has been part of the KKR family over the last few years and has played a significant role in our title triumphs in 2012 and 2014. We wish him the very best in all his endeavors."