(left to proper) Javed Miandad, Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis chill out in the course of the Pakistan v South Africa ODI on the Manuka Oval in Canberra on February 15, 1992. — AFP
Former Pakistan captain and legendary pacer Wasim Akram has revealed his prime 5 cricketers from his illustrious taking part in days, naming Sir Vivian Richards because the hardest batter he bowled to.
Talking on the Stick with Cricket podcast alongside England greats Michael Vaughan, Sir Alastair Cook dinner, David Lloyd, and Phil Tufnell, Akram mirrored on the highlights of his 17-year profession.
When requested to call one of the best batter, the 59-year-old picked West Indies legend Sir Vivian Richards.
“People often ask me who the best batsman I bowled to was. For me, it has to be Sir Vivian Richards. It’s not just about his batting — it was the whole package, the charisma he carried with him,” Akram mentioned.
He added that he additionally confronted many different greats, together with Allan Border, Graham Gooch, Sachin Tendulkar, and Brian Lara.
“Sir Viv was at the end of his career in 1987-88, but what a character he was — everyone’s hero,” Akram added.
The legendary left-arm pacer went on to call the 5 greatest cricketers he performed in opposition to throughout his profession.
“My top has to be Imran Khan, because of what he did for Pakistan. Then Viv Richards, Martin Crowe, Brian Lara, and Sachin Tendulkar,” he revealed.
Akram additionally recalled among the hardest contests he confronted, singling out Australian wicketkeeper-batter Adam Gilchrist in ODIs.
“I very rarely played against the great Ricky Ponting, but in ODIs, Adam Gilchrist was one who really troubled me,” he admitted.
When requested about one of the best nations to play cricket in, Akram selected England and Australia.
“It’s hard to pick just one. England is special because of its rich history, excellent facilities, knowledge of the game, and easy travel. And then, of course, Australia,” he mentioned.
“I remember touring there in 1989 after my first year with Lancashire, and Imran [Khan] told me, ‘If you perform against Australia in their own conditions, you’ll be recognised straight away.’ And that’s exactly what happened,” Akram concluded.
