Pakistan pace bowling legend Wasim Akram praised how Bangladesh improved as a cricket team over the past 10 to 12 years, and particularly mentioned their development as a fielding unit.
Former Pakistan captain Wasim made a special appearance in Bangladesh ODI captain Tamim Iqbal’s live session on Tuesday alongside former Bangladesh skippers Akram Khan, Khaled Mashud and Minhajul Abedin.
“For me, it is a very proud moment to see Bangladesh cricket has improved immensely in the last 10-12 years. World-class players like yourself [Tamim], Shakib al Hasan and Mustafizur Rahman - all these guys are playing now. It is really good to see. And Bangladesh side when these guys [Akram, Mashud and Minhajul] were there, the fielding was not that great (laughs) but now Bangladesh is now one of the best fielding sides in the world," said Wasim during the live session.
During the cameo appearance, Wasim remembered the first time he visited Bangladesh to play in the Dhaka Premier Division Cricket League for Abahani Limited and how, over the years, he has developed love for the people and the country.
Wasim has been a strong supporter of Bangladesh cricket from his playing time to now as a commentator.
Tamim addressing the fact said, “Wasim bhai, I just need to tell you before we start. You have been a big supporter of Bangladesh, during your playing time and even now when you are commentating or doing anything, you have always said good things about Bangladesh and I really thank you on behalf of Bangladesh. So we will start by asking you how well do you know these three [Akram, Minhajul and Mashud] guys.”
"Very well,” replied Wasim.
“I have played a lot against these guys. When I played for Abahani in Bangladesh, I have played with them, I have played against them and we have always been good friends off the field. I used to come to Bangladesh for commentating and I used to hang out with them. So, I miss coming to Bangladesh. Bangladesh has always been very close to my heart," the “Sultan of Swing” added.
Before signing off from the show, Wasim said, “I remember vaguely about [Mashud] Pilot that he generally was a good guy behind the stumps. Very aggressive for his country but basically he was a nice guy, always smiling, always happy but a fighter. Now I don't remember much about others as we are getting old. But Akram, I remembered that he never liked fielding. You agree right, Akram? Come on, tell me!”
