Renowned Pakistan Bowling legend Wasim Akram I recently looked into the prospects Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 Winner. Speaking to Sportskeeda on the show ‘Match Ki Baat’, Akram revealed his views on the team which he believes is ready to clinch the coveted IPL title this season.
Timing is crucial: Wasim Akram’s perspective
Akram emphasized the crucial role of timing and performance and asserted that the team that is at its best at the right time will be on the way to victory. When asked about his predictions for the top four, Akram said that the teams that are in form when it matters most will secure the coveted playoff spots.
“Predicting the outcome is indeed quite challenging. At the very beginning, I mentioned the four teams – Rajasthan Royals, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Kolkata Knight Riders and CSK. They are followed by Lucknow and Mumbai, all neck and neck. Now the team that delivers the right performance at the right time will move forward. It’s time to make the most of your playing eleven, ensure your team’s combination is right and, most importantly, that your players remain injury-free.”
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Akram’s unwavering support
However, Akram later revealed that he is still supporting Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the IPL. Akram emphasized his unwavering loyalty, which he likened to the fortitude of a chameleon, and reiterated his long-standing support for the franchise. Notably, Akram served as bowling coach for KKR from 2010 to 2016, which coincided with the team’s successful IPL campaigns in 2012 and 2014. He expressed his solidarity with KKR, citing their commendable performance and his deep personal bond with the team. He also emphasized the importance of player fitness and urged teams to quickly replace injured players with suitable alternatives.
“If a player is injured at this point, you need to make sure the replacement player has similar qualities. It’s difficult to make any predictions here, but I back KKR as they are performing well. I worked for KKR. I don’t change my allegiance like a chameleon; I worked for KKR, Kolkata is my favorite team, I am with KKR. Now even Gautam is in KKR. For me, KKR’s support has doubled,” Akram said.
Akram’s insights into the presence of experience
KKR failed to qualify for the playoffs in the previous two IPL seasons. However, the team has started well this season and is currently in second place in the points table with 10 points from seven games. A big change that took place in KKR’s backroom staff this year was the return of Gautam Gambhir as a mentor. Akram spoke about the difference Gambhir’s presence has made to KKR.
“I think the arrival of Gautam Gambhir has definitely made a big difference in the KKR team. Since Gautam left the franchise, KKR have reached the final only once and lost that too. The performance wasn’t that good. Look what Gautam did with Sunil Narine. He supported him and said you will open the batting line-up even if you fail or score and look at the performances he has done.” concluded the 57-year-old.
KKR defeated them Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for a run in their final IPL 2024 game on Sunday. They will play their next game against them Punjab Kings (PBKS) on Friday.