Wasim Akram wishes to watch India and Pakistan players together in T20 cricket leagues

Wasim Akram

Legendary pacer Wasim Akram appreciated the competitiveness of Indian Premier League (IPL). The former Pakistani bowler called IPL the best cricket tournament across the world in terms of competition level. But he also rued the fact that Pakistani players do not get a chance to be a part of the multi-franchise tournament.

“I have always believed that sports shouldn’t be a victim of politics but that is a government subject of both countries, and it won’t be apt for me to say anything. But as you said in the question itself, yes IPL is one of the most competitive domestic leagues in the cricketing world. I wish Pakistan youngsters to be a part of it and I also wish to see Indian players playing in PSL,” he told ANI.

Pakistan players were part of the inaugural edition of Indian Premier League. But they could not be a part of any other season due to the rising ‘political tensions’ between the two nations. On the other hand, Indian players never participated in any of five editions of Pakistan Super League.

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“The opening match of the IPL this season was watched by approximately 20 crore people making it the most-watched opening day in any sporting league ever. Sri Lanka too has been devoid of any sporting events during this period, so what better way than to embrace the new normal with the most loved sports in the country. I do not doubt that response of fans to events like this is a huge boost to the sports and the organisers,” he pointed.

T20 leagues give exposure to many cricketers: Akram

The former Kolkata Knight Riders coach is currently working as the mentor of Galle Gladiators in the inaugural Lankan Premier League. The ‘Sultan of Swing’ lauded the organisation of such competitive tournaments where youngsters get a chance to showcase themselves.

“T20 leagues around the world have given exposure to many cricketers, both young and experienced. Thanks to T20 cricket, the game has become very fast now. Batsmen are scoring runs at a quicker rate, bowlers have become innovative, and the standard of fielding has gone up by many notches.

“And you can see the impact of T20 cricket in the longer format as well. Test matches are producing results frequently than it used to and that is a good sign for the game. We have seen that with all T20 Leagues in the world and cricket as a whole,” he explained.

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