Wasim Akram is among the nation’s most celebrated cricketers — AFP
Former Pakistan pacer Wasim Akram on Thursday acknowledged the artist behind a lately unveiled statue of him, regardless of widespread criticism of the sculpture on social media.
The statue of Wasim Akram — one of many biggest left-arm quick bowlers to play the sport — was put in exterior the southwestern metropolis of Hyderabad’s Niaz Stadium in April.
Akram is proven bowling carrying the equipment of the 1999 World Cup staff, when Pakistan have been runners-up.
Close by is a statue of a tiger.
One fan mocked the statue, saying: “The only thing that looks real is the ball,” including the face seemed extra like Hollywood hero Sylvester Stallone.
The affable Akram, nonetheless, took to social media to reward the hassle.
“Lots of talk about my sculpture being erected at Niaz Stadium, Hyderabad. Mine is definitely better than the tiger,” he posted on X.
“It’s the idea that matters. Credit to the creators, full marks for the effort and thanks to everyone involved.”
Australia has a historical past of putting statues of their iconic gamers exterior their stadiums, whereas India unveiled one in all grasp batter Sachin Tendulkar exterior a stadium in Mumbai in 2023.
Niaz stadium chief Shiraz Leghari instructed AFP: “The artist did his best effort, but accepts it doesn’t resemble (Akram) a 100%.”
Akram is among the nation’s most celebrated cricketers, having represented Pakistan in 104 Assessments and 356 ODIs with 414 and 502 wickets respectively.
He was the main wicket-taker within the 1992 World Cup when Pakistan claimed the trophy.
