Would love to see Indian players participate in PSL and vice-versa, claims Wasim Akram

Cricketing activities between India and Pakistan have largely been restricted to ICC tournaments and Asia Cups, due to intrinsic political tension between the countries, but that was not the case over a decade ago when the two countries - and subsequently the boards - were in good terms. The inaugural edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) saw a plethora of Pakistan players participate and, on top of that, the two countries also toured each other back and forth at regular intervals. Things, however, have not been the same since 2008, with the two countries’ last bilateral series having taken place seven years ago.

After a tough 2019, the PCB handed the responsibility of taking the country’s cricket forward to young Babar Azam, who has been touted by many as Pakistan’s best cricketing talent of the 21st century. Due to the weight of runs scored by Azam, there have been unavoidable Virat Kohli comparisons, and while not delving into the ‘comparison’ debate, Akram hoped for the 26-year-old to take a leaf out of the Indian skipper’s book and instill consistency into his game.

Over the past decade and a half, Akram, ever since retiring from the game, has shown keen interest in coaching. A former bowling coach of the KKR franchise, the 54-year-old is currently the chairman and bowling coach of PSL franchise Karachi Kings. When asked if he would be willing to take up a full-time national role and work with the promising pacers in the country, Akram said that his services ‘are always available for Pakistan cricket.’

“My services are always available for Pakistan cricket. The current lot is an exciting bunch and I love spending some time with them, guiding them if they fall short in any aspect and this is routine, I have been involved with the players on many occasions in the past whenever they needed some guidance and advice. I also think that Pakistan cricket is in very capable hands at the moment and I wish them luck for their future, I am sure they will do a good job.”