Renowned Pakistan bowling legend Wasim Akram recently delved into the prospects of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 winner. Engaging with Sportskeeda on their Match Ki Baat show, Akram unveiled his perspective on the team he perceives as primed to seize the coveted IPL title this season.
Timing is key: Wasim Akram’s perspective
Akram emphasized the crucial role of timing and performance, asserting that the team exhibiting peak form at the opportune juncture stands poised for triumph. When queried about his predictions for the top four finishers, Akram contended that those teams surging in form when it matters most would clinch coveted playoff spots.
“Predicting the outcome is indeed quite challenging. Even at the outset, I mentioned the four teams – Rajasthan Royals, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Kolkata Knight Riders, and CSK. Following them are Lucknow and Mumbai, all neck and neck. Now, the team that will surge ahead is the one that delivers the right performance at the right time. It’s time to make optimal use 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 still supports Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the IPL. Akram emphasized his unwavering loyalty, likening it to the steadfastness of a chameleon, and affirmed his longstanding support for the franchise. Notably, Akram served as a bowling coach for KKR from 2010 to 2016, coinciding with the team’s triumphant IPL campaigns in 2012 and 2014. He expressed his solidarity with KKR, citing their commendable performance and his deep personal ties to the team. Furthermore, he underscored the importance of player fitness, urging teams to swiftly replace injured players with suitable alternatives.
“If a player is injured at this time, you must ensure that the replacement player possesses similar qualities. Predicting here is difficult, but I am supporting KKR, as they are performing well. I have worked for KKR. I do not change my allegiance like a chameleon; I have worked for KKR, Kolkata is my favorite team, I am with KKR. Now even Gautam is with KKR. For me, KKR’s support has doubled,” Akram said.
Akram’s insights on presence of experience
KKR could not qualify for the playoffs in the previous two IPL seasons. However, this season, the team have started well and currently hold the second position in the points table with 10 points from seven matches. One major change that happened in KKR’s backroom staff this year was the return of Gautam Gambhir as mentor. Akram spoke about the difference that Gambhir’s presence has made at KKR.
“Absolutely, I think, the arrival of Gautam Gambhir has made a huge difference in the KKR team. See ever since Gautam left the franchise, KKR reached the final just once, and they lost that one as well. The performance hasn’t been that good. Look what Gautam has done with Sunil Narine. He backed him and said you will open the batting even if you fail or score, and see the performances that he has given,” the 57-year-old concluded.
KKR defeated the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) by one run in their last IPL 2024 match on Sunday. They will play their next match against the Punjab Kings (PBKS) on Friday.
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