Wasim Akram: From tennis ball cricket to Swing ka Sultan

Pakistan legendary fast bowler Wasim Akram, also called Swing ka Sultan by his many fans is regularly rated among the greatest fast bowlers ever to play international cricket.

The former Pakistan captain have made it big on the international circuit, but Akram like many other cricketing superstars started off playing on the streets and was a sought after player in the tennis ball cricket as well.

“Start by playing with tennis ball. Many top cricketers started their career playing with tennis ball. I was once a professional tennis ball cricketer before playing with hard ball and went on to play for Pakistan,” said Akram, quoted Gulf News.

Akram then informed about his days as the tennis ball superstar, “Before I played for Pakistan in 1984, I was a professional tennis ball cricket player. I used to be paid Pakistan Rs.20 per game. That was a lot of money at that time and so if I played 10 games in a month I could easily make Rs.200. I learnt a lot by playing tennis ball cricket on the streets and on the terrace.”

“Tennis ball cricket will always remain close to my heart,” he added.

The legendary batsman is currently associated with Multan Sultans as the franchise director, the side is the latest entry into the Pakistan Super League (PSL).