(Disclaimer: this is a work of fiction. Learn to take a joke; you’ll live longer.)
LAHORE – Struggling Mohammad Amir got praise from the very top of the game on Monday, as the legendary Wasim Akram said that Amir reminded him of himself.
While speaking to media at the Lahore Gymkhana after a couple of rounds of playing cards, Akram said that he sees himself in the way Amir shuffles playing cards.
“Also in the way he grips the three cards in his hand, and how he swings the chip on the centre of the table,” the legend of the game said. “The focus is clear in his eyes, and he already knows his future plays. He knows when the stakes are high,” he added.
Akram had the experience of playing with Amir when he was coaching the Karachi Kings. When asked if there were any similarities on the cricket field as well, Akram replied in the affirmative.
“Yes, the way he gambles…” Akram began his response. “On whether the batsman would be playing inside or outside the line of the ball.”
“I can also see it in the way he makes the bet…” Akram continued. “The batsman uncomfortable with his deliveries.”
“Also the way he handles the deck,” he continued after pausing. “The pitch… how he handles the pitch, and the playing conditions.”
When asked if he would stick by his claim that he sees Amir as a future captain, Akram replied in the affirmative again.
“I mean if after all I did…” he began. “Yes, yes of course I see him as a future captain,” he concluded