Kohli is one of the most popular cricketers in Pakistan: Akram

Former Pakistan captain and legendary fast-bowler Wasim Akram believes that Indian skipper Virat Kohli is the most popular cricketers in Pakistan.

Akram — who claimed over 900 international wickets for Pakistan — is of the opinion that Kohli’s mindset is vital to the Indian captain’s success.     

“It is Virat’s mindset that makes all the difference. When I mean mindset, it includes off the field preparation also- awareness about all the worldly things, what needs to be done to become the best in the world and it’s not just about having the perfect technique,” said Akram while talking to Press Trust of India. “He is one of the most popular cricketers in Pakistan.”

The 52-year-old also heaped praise on Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah and his ability to bowl Yorkers at will.

“Jasprit Bumrah has the best and the most effective yorker among fast bowlers playing international cricket now,” he said. “What makes Bumrah special is his ability to bowl yorkers on a regular basis.”

Akram also stressed on the importance of using the Yorker as a weapon in Test matches as well rather than solely using it in the limited-overs format.

“The yorker is not just used for ODIs but for Test matches too as me and Waqar did in our times. Bumrah has an exceptional action, very different from other fast bowlers and yet he gets the ball to swing and also move off the deck at good pace,” he said.

Akram was also impressed with the fact that India registered their first-ever Test series win against Australia, away from home, despite the challenging nature of the task.  

“It’s a huge achievement to win a Test series in Australia. I don’t subscribe to the view that this is a weakened Australian side,” he said. “Let’s not take away any credit from Virat and his boys. The kind of consistency they have shown is indeed a big deal.”