Former Pakistani cricket legend Wasim Akram has offered valuable advice to the Indian fast bowlers ahead of the highly anticipated ICC World Test Championship Final. Wasim Akram, renowned as one of the greatest pace bowlers of all time, shared his insights on the key attribute required by Indian pacers to succeed in the upcoming clash.
The Indian cricket team is set to face off against Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, scheduled to take place from June 7th to June 11th at The Oval in London. The Indian pace attack, spearheaded by the experienced duo of Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj, holds the key to India’s chances of clinching the prestigious title. Akram believes that patience will be the crucial factor for success against the formidable Australian batting lineup.
In an interview with the International Cricket Council (ICC), Wasim Akram advised the Indian quicks to exercise restraint and avoid the temptation of becoming too aggressive in the early stages of their spells. He emphasized the importance of maintaining discipline and not falling into the trap of bowling short deliveries too often.
“Stay patient against Australia’s top order and avoid the tendency to drop too short early in your spell,” Akram advised the Indian pacers.
Drawing from his own illustrious career, Wasim Akram highlighted the significance of experience and not allowing the excitement of the new ball to overpower them. He pointed out that swing usually lasts for around 10 to 15 overs, and it is crucial for fast bowlers to avoid leaking runs during this period.
“Don’t give away extra runs in the first 10 to 15 overs as a fast bowler. It’s important not to get too excited if there is a bit of bounce, as that is what the Australians want,” Wasim Akram cautioned.
The former Pakistani paceman himself had a remarkable Test career and enjoyed considerable success at The Oval. In 1992, during the fifth and final Test against England, Akram registered his career-best figures of 6/67 at this very venue, leading his team to a memorable victory. Reflecting on his experiences, he acknowledged the unique nature of the pitch at The Oval.
“This pitch normally favors teams from the subcontinent, but whenever we toured here, it was always at the end of August or the start of September,” Akram revealed.
Given that the WTC Final is taking place in June, Wasim Akram emphasized the need for the Indian pacers to quickly adapt to the conditions and be prepared for a different challenge. The square at The Oval, along with the ball, is expected to behave differently compared to the conditions in late summer. The Indian bowlers must make the necessary adjustments and exploit any advantage they can gain.
The Indian pace attack has shown tremendous skill and potential in recent times, playing a crucial role in the team’s historic Test series victory in Australia earlier this year. Wasim Akram expressed confidence in the abilities of the Indian bowlers and urged them to remain composed and focused throughout the final.
“These Indian bowlers have the experience and skill. It’s essential for them not to get carried away with the new ball. The swing might not last very long, so it’s important to make the most of it in the initial overs,” Akram advised.
Read more: Pakistan Granted Permission for 4-Nation African Football Championship
As the Indian team prepares for the World Test Championship Final, the words of wisdom from a legend like Wasim Akram are invaluable. The advice to remain patient, exercise restraint, and adapt quickly to the conditions could prove to be crucial in India’s quest for glory. With the Indian pacers embracing these insights, fans can look forward to an enthralling battle between bat and ball in what promises to be a captivating contest at The Oval.
