Wasim Akram looking forward to working with Virender Sehwag in TCL

The Sultan of Swing, Wasim Akram, who has been named as the mentor for Maratha Arabians in the brand new concept of T10 Cricket League, is now looking forward to working closely with the ‘Sultan of Multan’ Virender Sehwag who would be captaining the side in the tournament.

Maratha Arabians in the players’ draft, surprisingly picked up Mohammad Sami in their lineup. Akram also picked up Kumar Sangakkara and star Pakistani bowler Mohammad Amir. Their batting lineup would also boast the likes of Lendl Simmons and Alex Hales, along with the all-round option of Imad Wasim.

“I’ve worked with Viru in the past and it is always great to spend time with him. When I knew we were working together, I joked with Viru that I would be conducting a fitness test for him as soon as he joined the team,” commented Wasim Akram according to Mid-Day.

Hope TCL will bring India and Pakistan closer: Akram

Since the inception of the Indian Premier League, Wasim Akram has been a part of the cash-rich tournament, especially with Kolkata Knight Riders. Akram was also responsible for moulding the now Indian spearheads in bowling Mohammad Shami and Umesh Yadav. He was also instrumental in their successful campaign in the edition of 2012 and 2014. However, due to diplomatic issues, the involvement of Pakistanis in the IPL reduced to none.

“It is unfortunate that there is no Pakistani participation in the IPL and equally that there aren’t more Indians in this league. I always love travelling to India and working there, I’ve made some really close friends there and have not gone there in the last two years I miss the people, the culture, the environment,” added Akram.

Meanwhile, Kerala Kings, coached by Brian Lara, captained by Eoin Morgan bagged the likes of Shakib Al Hasan and Kieron Pollard who have proven to be priceless in T20 franchise cricket. Also, Kerela strengthened their bowling with the services of Sohail Tanveer and Wahab Riaz.