Today marks the 49th birthday of Pakistan’s most celebrated cricketer and arguably the greatest bowler ever produced by the country, Wasim Akram. Wasim was born on 3rd June 1966 at Lahore.
Wasim Akram’s career spanned an impressive 19 years, during which he played 396 One Day Internationals and captured an astounding 502 wickets. After terrorizing batsmen with his deadly accuracy and lightening fast yorkers, Wasim bid farewell to the world of cricket on May 2003.
Wasim started playing cricket during his days in Islamia College, Lahore and also played first class cricket in Rawalpindi at the age of 18. Wasim played his first One Day International for Pakistan against New Zealand on 23rd Novermber 1984.
Wasim Akram was one of the main reasons the Imran Khan-led Pakistan cricket team was able to lift the world cup in 1992. Wasim bowled out a formidable English batting lineup for low scores in the final to secure the win for Pakistan. During the 90s, Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis were considered the best pace duo in the world. Skilled batsmen were unable to stand firm against Wasim and Waqar’s blistering pace and reverse swing.
Under Wasim’s captaincy, Pakistan almost won their second world cup yet were routed in the final against Australia. After retirement, Wasim has not only commentated in matches but is also currently offering his services as bowling coach for the Shah Rukh Khan-owned IPL team Kolkata Knight Riders.
#HappyBirthdayWasimAkram birthday wishes to the best fast bowler the cricket world has ever scene.
— Shaggy (@fxanrabbani) June 3, 2015
14209 runs and 1931 wickets in Professional career, the best left-arm Pace Bowler ever born turns 49 today. #HappyBirthdayWasimAkram
— Barbie Doll (@Saeen_Iqra) June 3, 2015
Allan Donald on Wasim Akram. #HappyBirthdayWasimAkram pic.twitter.com/P04bekQ2ms
— Bruce Wayne. (@iPakistani10) June 3, 2015
The sultan of swing! #HappyBirthdayWasimAkram
— M. (@meraydost) June 3, 2015