Legendary Pakistani bowler Wasim Akram recently praised young Indian batter Abhishek Sharma after India’s victory over Pakistan in the Champions Trophy 2025. In a viral video, Akram commended Sharma’s impressive performance, particularly a 37-ball century against England, and encouraged him to maintain focus and aim for a long cricket career. Initially failing to recognize Sharma when they met in Dubai, Akram later acknowledged the young cricketer’s talent, comparing him to explosive player Shahid Afridi. Akram expressed confidence in Sharma’s potential, noting his skills as a hard-hitting batsman and a capable fielder, offering him heartfelt advice for the future.
Abhishek Sharma (L) and Wasim Akram© X (Twitter)
Iconic Pakistan fast bowler Wasim Akram recently encountered India’s rising star Abhishek Sharma during the ongoing Champions Trophy 2025. Following India’s victory over Pakistan in their Group A match, a clip of their meeting gained widespread attention, with Akram commending the young player. “Amazing innings. I witnessed that performance. Keep it up. This is just the beginning… Stay focused and continue excelling. Wishing you all the best,” Akram expressed in the video. He later shared that he initially did not recognize Abhishek, but upon introduction, he realized who he was and offered encouraging words to the batter, who scored an impressive century in the England series.
“I met him in Dubai. I was in the DP World Box. At first, I didn’t recognize him. This young chap approached me and introduced himself as ‘I am Abhishek Sharma’. I then said, ‘Oh, Abhishek, the one who played fantastically against England’,” Akram recounted on Ten Sports.
“I remarked, ‘Well done, young man’. He’s quite a handsome lad. I’ve watched some clips of his batting. I believe he has a very promising future. I advised him with just one thing: remember, this is merely the beginning; you have to play for your country for another 15-20 years,” he added.
Akram mentioned Abhishek’s remarkable 37-ball century in the series against England, even likening him to the explosive Shahid Afridi.
“With the kind of talent he possesses, I think he is also a fantastic fielder. What an impressive player and an outstanding innings. A 37-ball century. I had heard of Boom Boom Afridi, and now I see this,” he remarked.
Furthermore, Wasim Akram stated, “I’ve seen his innings, and I consider him an excellent hard-hitting batsman. He just needs to keep concentrating on his game.”
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