Kolkata: Wasim Akram, former Pakistan captain known as the ‘Sultan of the Swing', has been a guest in India for a while now as the bowling coach of Kolkata Knight Riders.
Speaking to Gulf News on the sidelines of a training camp of the Shah Rukh Khan-owned franchise, Akram dwelt on various aspects of his current role.Excerpts:
Gulf News: How are you enjoying the coaching stint with Kolkata Knight Riders?
Wasim Akram: Actually, it's a great feeling. I am gaining lot of new experience while doing this job.
The KKR did not do well in the first two editions. What are your expectations this year?
The preparation is going on well so far. I think the boys will definitely do well this time.
What are your exact responsibilities?
Basically, bowling department comes under my area. My main job is to work with the upcoming bowlers. I am happy to be passing on a few tips to the likes of Ishant Sharma — one or two finer things. He's a superb attacking bowler.
It's hence a huge responsibility for you to look after the juniors as well as the seniors.
Sort of. Since the tournament is knocking at the doors, I am concentrating on brushing them up. With the passage of time, they would realise how to bowl in the limited overs game. Sometimes I am also showing them by bowling myself. Oh yes, the ball is still swinging which is a great feeling.
Do you think that bowlers over the world are losing touch of the swing bowling?
It's an art. You must learn it. And in order to be a swing bowler, you must know your wrist position, the correct grip of the ball ... As I mentioned earlier, if you love it, if you try to remain a student of swing bowling, the famous art will be with you. But you have to love it. If someone can acquire the art of swing bowling, he would be benefited, indirectly the team would be winning matches for this great art. I know many batsmen, who have no problem with extra speed, crumble in front of swing bowling.
Any other responsibilities for KKR?
I know my area. But whatever I feel, I always pass it on to captain Sourav Ganguly. I have no intention to cross the border. I would definitely give my best for the role I have been given by Shah Rukh Khan.
The writer is a journalist based in India
