Older cricketers have role to play, says Wasim Akram

Former left-arm bowler believes mixture of youth and experience is always positive

Former Pakistan left-arm bowler Wasim Akram said on Friday that older players still have a role in modern cricket due to their experience.

Wasim, who currently serves as director of cricket of Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Islamabad United, said he believes that a mixture of youth and experience is always positive, especially in the T20 format.

“Older cricketers still have a role to play,” he said during the PSL tie between Islamabad United and Karachi Kings, which the latter won by eight runs under the D/L method. “Our average age is about 29, which brings a good blend of youth and experience.”



Talking about veterans Misbahul Haq, Shane Watson, and Mohammad Sami, the former left-arm pacer said that the reigning PSL champions definitely benefit from their inclusion.

“In T20 format, you can lose quick wickets, but we have Misbah and Watson [to rely on],” he said. “Additionally, Sami has been great for us. Even though he is 36 or 37, he can bowl up to 149 kph, which has been the quickest in this competition.”



Speaking on the success of the PSL, Wasim said that in three to four years’ time, Pakistan would witness an improved quality of cricket due to the league.

“With the onset of PSL, youngsters are learning a lot and seeing what the greats of the game do to succeed,” he said. “In three or four years, we will have more young Pakistani boys in the national team who can compete at the international level.”