The cricketing world in Dhaka has been buzzing with excitement since the announcement on social media on 11 December that Pakistan’s legendary fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar would visit the city. Arriving last Sunday, Akhtar has instantly become the centre of attention as he takes on the role of mentor for the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) side, Dhaka Capitals. Known for holding the record for the fastest delivery in international cricket, the 46-year-old former pacer brings both expertise and flair to the tournament.
Speaking at a press conference at a hotel in Banani, Dhaka, Akhtar expressed his affection for Bangladesh and its cricket fans. Questions regarding the BPL and Dhaka Capitals were few, as the focus naturally gravitated towards Akhtar’s illustrious career, his fast bowling techniques, favourite deliveries, and preferred cricketing opponents. After all, who wouldn’t want insights from the man once dubbed the “Rawalpindi Express”?
Over his 14-year international career, Akhtar represented Pakistan in 46 Tests, claiming 178 wickets, 163 One-Day Internationals where he took 247 wickets, and 15 T20 Internationals, adding 19 wickets to his tally. When asked about his most cherished three deliveries, Akhtar playfully named the greatest cricketers he faced: “In my personal view, the three greatest of all time are Shane Warne, Wasim Akram, and Sachin Tendulkar.”
Discussing his favourite three wickets, Akhtar joked, “My top three deliveries? Getting Tendulkar first ball, hitting Brian Lara on the neck, hitting Gary Kirsten on the chest—just kidding!” He clarified, “The real top three are dismissing Tendulkar and Adam Gilchrist with yorkers in Colombo in 2002, and in my third or fourth Test, sending Jacques Kallis back with a fast, moving delivery.”
On the thrill of fast bowling, Akhtar advised, “Enjoy your bowling. A long run-up, long hair, open shirt… every moment is an event. Each ball is an event. Entertain the crowd, but remember, the aim is to take wickets, not injure batsmen.” He admitted that hitting Tendulkar and Lara was not something he took pleasure in, despite his aggressive reputation on the field.
Reflecting on the differences between his era and today’s generation, Akhtar noted, “I don’t blame this generation—they play in the T20 era, travel constantly, and often have to play again the next day. The fastest deliveries require periods of six months’ focused training. Without that, the aggression we displayed is missing in modern cricket.”
Shoaib Akhtar: Career Highlights and Favourite Wickets
| Format | Matches | Wickets | Notable Wickets |
|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 46 | 178 | Sachin Tendulkar, Jacques Kallis, Brian Lara |
| ODI | 163 | 247 | Adam Gilchrist, Tendulkar |
| T20I | 15 | 19 | Key fast deliveries in early T20 matches |
Akhtar’s visit not only celebrates the BPL but also offers fans a rare glimpse into the mind of one of cricket’s fastest and most charismatic bowlers. His stories, insights, and advice are already creating a festive atmosphere in Dhaka, and his mentorship is expected to be a significant boost for Dhaka Capitals in this year’s tournament.