- Wasim Akram supports KKR bowlers ahead of IPL Qualifier.
- KKR topped the points table due to strong performances.
- He believes KKR’s controlled aggression has contributed to their success.
Wasim Akram, the renowned fast bowler from Pakistan, expressed his support for the bowlers of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in anticipation of their Indian Premier League (IPL) Qualifier match against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), which is to be held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
KKR has shown remarkable performance in both batting and bowling, leading them to top the points table before the playoffs.
Akram, in his conversation with Sportskeeda, stated, “This is [bowling] is one of the main factors [behind KKR finishing on top of the points table]. There are wicket-taking bowlers. The teams that will take wickets will win the matches. If you see Chakaravarthy has 18, Harshit Rana’s 16, all-rounders Andre Russell and Sunil Narine have 15, and Mitchell Starc has 12. Starc single-handedly won them a game as well. They are going in the final as a calm, confident, and very dangerous side for sure.”
Having been a part of KKR’s coaching staff previously, Akram observed that the team led by Shreyas Iyer has benefited from controlled aggression.
He further added, “Almost everyone performed, they played Manish Pandey in one game and he also delivered. So, that shows that everybody is happy and confident. They have aggression, but they have controlled aggression. They are not cocky or overconfident.”
Akram also mentioned that Phil Salt’s departure for international duty might have an impact on KKR. Rahmanullah Gurbaz is expected to fill in for him in the playoffs.
He concluded by saying, “No doubt, Phil Salt’s absence will affect them.”
