Former Pakistan pace legend Wasim Akram recently shared a candid moment about his encounter with young Indian batter Abhishek Sharma during the India vs Pakistan clash in Dubai on February 23. Akram admitted that he initially didn’t recognize Abhishek but quickly realized he was the same batter who had dismantled England with a sensational century earlier this month.
In a viral video, Akram was seen interacting with Abhishek, congratulating him on his explosive hundred against England at Wankhede. Reflecting on this moment while speaking on the Dressing Room show, Akram humorously recalled his reaction.
“I met him in Dubai at the DP World Box. At first, I didn’t recognize him. Then he introduced himself as Abhishek Sharma, and I was like, ‘Oh, the same Abhishek who smashed England all over the park?’” Wasim Akram said with a laugh.
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The legendary fast bowler was full of praise for the young left-hander, highlighting his impressive talent and future potential. “I told him, ‘Well done, beta.’ He’s a very good-looking lad and an even better cricketer. I’ve watched some of his clips, and he has a bright future ahead. I just gave him one piece of advice—this is only the beginning, think about playing for the next 15-20 years for India,” Wasim Akram added.
Drawing comparisons to Shahid Afridi’s iconic 37-ball century against Sri Lanka in 1996, Akram was in awe of Abhishek’s ability to clear the ropes with ease. “A 37-ball hundred? We all remember ‘Boom Boom’ Afridi, and now we have Abhishek Sharma making waves,” Wasim Akram said, emphasizing the left-hander’s fearless stroke play.
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In that historic knock against England, Abhishek scored 135 off just 54 balls, breaking his close friend Shubman Gill’s record for the highest individual T20I score by an Indian. He clobbered 13 sixes, leaving England’s bowlers utterly helpless. With such performances, Abhishek Sharma is undoubtedly one of India’s most exciting young batting prospects.
