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Wasim Akram, known as "The Sultan of Swing," is widely regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers in cricket history. With over 900 international wickets, his records are a testament to his skill and longevity in the game. In this article, we explore 20 captivating facts about Wasim Akram: The Sultan of Swing, delving into his incredible achievements, personal life, and lasting influence on the world of cricket. His legacy remains unmatched in the art of swing bowling.1
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Wasim Akram was born on June 3, 1966, in Lahore, Pakistan. He is regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers in cricket history, known for his mastery of swing bowling. 1
Akram made his international debut in 1984, aged just 18, against New Zealand, impressing with his raw pace and swing, quickly becoming a key figure in Pakistan’s bowling attack. 2
He is the first bowler in ODI history to take 500 wickets, achieving the milestone during the 2003 ICC Cricket World Cup, a record that stood for several years. 3
Akram played 104 Test matches, taking 414 wickets at an average of 23.62, and his best bowling figures in an innings were 7/119 against New Zealand in 2001. 4
In ODI cricket, Akram took 502 wickets in 356 matches, at an average of 23.52, making him one of the highest wicket-takers in the format’s history.
Akram was instrumental in Pakistan's 1992 ICC Cricket World Cup win, taking 18 wickets in the tournament, including a game-changing performance in the final against England. 5
Wasim is famous for his ability to bowl reverse swing, a technique he mastered, making him one of the most dangerous bowlers, especially in the death overs. 6
Akram's career-best ODI bowling figures of 5/15 came against Zimbabwe in 2001, showcasing his dominance and skill with the ball in limited-overs cricket. 7
He captained Pakistan in 25 Test matches between 1993 and 2000, leading the team to several notable victories, though his captaincy had moments of controversy. 8
Akram married Huma Mufti in 1995, and they had two sons, Tahmoor and Akbar. Tragically, Huma passed away in 2009 due to complications related to a rare fungal infection.
In 2013, Wasim married Australian social worker Shaniera Thompson, and they have a daughter named Aiyla, born in 2014. The family lives between Pakistan and Australia. 9
Wasim has been involved in cricket commentary and coaching after retirement, mentoring young fast bowlers, particularly in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). 10
He is a co-owner of the Karachi Kings franchise in the Pakistan Super League, using his experience to help build a strong team in the country's premier T20 league. 11
Wasim Akram was inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame in 2009, honoring his extraordinary contributions to international cricket over two decades. 12
He was the first bowler to take four hat-tricks in international cricket, two in Tests and two in ODIs, a rare achievement that highlights his ability to produce magic moments. 13
Akram was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in 1997, but he managed his condition effectively and continued to play top-level cricket without letting it affect his performance. 14
He has written an autobiography, Sultan of Swing, detailing his cricket journey, his personal battles, and his insights into the game that brought him global fame.
Akram holds the record for the highest score by a number 8 batsman in Test cricket, scoring 257* against Zimbabwe in 1996, showing his skill as a lower-order batsman. 15
He was a part of the coaching staff for Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL, helping them win two IPL titles in 2012 and 2014, solidifying his post-retirement coaching reputation. 16
Akram is involved in various business ventures, including brand endorsements, and is a popular public figure, often raising awareness for diabetes and health-related causes. 17
