Cricket in Pakistan is more than just a sport – it is an identity, a name, a source of fame, especially for those associated with it. And whenever the history of Pakistan cricket is written, the name of the legendary fast bowler Wasim Akram will undoubtedly shine at the top.

Wasim Akram holds a unique place in Pakistan cricket, particularly as a left-arm fast bowler. His contributions to the art of fast bowling are invaluable.

The history of fast bowling in Pakistan began with the late Fazal Mahmood, followed by greats like Sarfraz Nawaz, the legendary Imran Khan, Waqar Younis, Shoaib Akhtar, Mohammad Sami, Umar Gul, Mohammad Asif, and Mohammad Amir. Yet, the stature and legacy that Wasim Akram achieved remain unparalleled.

Even though it has been 22 years since Wasim Akram retired from international cricket, he remains a familiar name and a source of inspiration for those connected with the sport.

One night, on March 4, 2015, during the ICC World Cup, the Pakistan cricket team defeated the UAE by 129 runs at McLean Park, Napier. I reached Wasim Akram’s hotel to conduct an interview for Geo News' segment “Sultan of Swing.” After the interview ended, Wasim Bhai (brother) came outside to see me and my cameraman, Jaffar Hussain, off.

The street outside the hotel was quiet, with only a single police car parked in front, making it stand out. After chatting with us for a few minutes, Wasim Akram went back inside. My cameraman and I waited for a taxi. A few minutes later, one of the policemen in the car called out to me. I walked over, expecting he might question why we were lingering so late – but his question surprised me.

He asked, "Was that Wasim Akram with you a while ago?"

I nodded.

The policeman, speaking with the excitement of a child, said, "I'm a huge fan of Wasim Akram. He really troubled the New Zealand batsmen on their home turf."

And it was true – Wasim Akram had taken 50 wickets in just 7 Tests in New Zealand at an incredible average of 17.18.

Seeing his enthusiasm, I offered to call Wasim Akram back out so the officer could take a photo with his favorite cricketer. But what the officer said next was another surprise.

He replied, “I’m honored by your offer, but unfortunately I can’t accept it.”

I asked, “Why not?”

He said, “I’m on duty right now, and my job doesn’t allow me to engage in personal matters.”

I share this story to highlight that not only are Wasim Akram’s fans responsible and dedicated, but Wasim Akram himself is an extremely professional and serious individual. Even after retiring from cricket, he has maintained the same commitment to professionalism. As a commentator, consultant, and cricket expert, he has consistently delivered excellence without compromising quality.

Even today, tales of Wasim Akram’s remarkable bowling are widely told. His explosive 33 runs off 18 balls and his bowling figures of 3/49 in the 1992 World Cup final against England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground remain unforgettable.

Taking the wickets of Allan Lamb and Chris Lewis on consecutive deliveries is a memory cherished by his fans.

Nicknamed the “Sultan of Swing,” Wasim Akram won the hearts of cricket lovers through sheer talent and relentless hard work. From 1984 to 2003, he bowled 40,813 deliveries in international cricket – that’s over 6,800 overs – a testament to his extraordinary stamina and skill.

He claimed 414 wickets in Test matches and 502 in One Day Internationals, making him Pakistan’s highest wicket-taker in international cricket – a record-breaking feat.

In first-class cricket, he took 1,042 wickets from 50,277 deliveries. He proudly represented Lancashire from 1988 to 1998 – a full decade. These staggering numbers, backed by his unrelenting spirit, firmly establish him as a legendary fast bowler.

Today, Pakistan cricket desperately needs bowlers with the same mission-oriented mindset that Wasim Akram embodied. He is not just a national treasure but a priceless gem in the global cricketing world. Bowlers like him are born once in a century. We are fortunate that Pakistan produced a legend like Wasim Akram – a complete academy of fast bowling in himself.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) must fully utilize his knowledge and expertise. Emerging fast bowlers should be trained under his mentorship. Workshops should be organized for the national team so that Wasim Akram can share his insights – not just about bowling techniques but also about managing one's cricketing career and personal life.

Today, many Pakistani fast bowlers are seeking their future in league cricket, showing less interest in longer formats like Test and ODI cricket. In this scenario, the mentorship and wisdom of a record-breaking legend like Wasim Akram could prove to be invaluable.