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Pakistan cricket legend Wasim Akram recently shared his picks for the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) in various cricketing categories ahead of the ODI World Cup 2023. Akram’s selections represent a diverse mix of legendary players who have made indelible marks on the world of cricket.
In a video shared by Star Sports, Akram, who is part of their broadcast panel for the upcoming global showpiece event, revealed his choices. Akram’s selection of the GOAT players not only entertained fans but also inspired generations with their remarkable skills and achievements on the cricket field.
GOAT Batter: Sir Vivian Richards
Akram’s choice for the greatest batter in ODI cricket was none other than the West Indies’ flamboyant maestro, Sir Vivian Richards. Known for his swagger and intimidating presence at the crease, Richards was a dominant force during his era. He amassed 6721 runs in 187 ODIs at an astonishing strike rate of 90.20, setting the benchmark for aggressive batting that few have matched.
Richards played a pivotal role in West Indies’ World Cup victories in 1975 as well as 1979 and is remembered for his fearless approach to batting. His ability to demolish any bowling attack made him a true legend in the format.
GOAT All-Rounder: Jacques Kallis
When it comes to the greatest all-rounder in ODI history, Akram’s choice was South Africa’s legendary cricketer Jacques Kallis. Kallis is widely regarded as one of the most complete cricketers to have ever graced the game. His incredible batting and bowling skills earned him a place among the cricketing elite.
Kallis scored a staggering 11,579 runs and took 273 wickets in 328 ODIs. His consistency with the bat and ability to provide breakthroughs with the ball made him a match-winner on numerous occasions. The Cape Town cricketer played a crucial role in South Africa’s success in ODI cricket and remains an inspiration for aspiring all-rounders.
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GOAT Spinner: Saqlain Mushtaq
In the realm of spin bowling, Akram’s choice for the GOAT spinner was his former Pakistan teammate Saqlain Mushtaq. Notably, Saqlain revolutionized the art of off-spin with his introduction of the “doosra,” a delivery that spun the opposite way to a conventional off-break. His innovative skills and accuracy made him a menace for batters worldwide.
Saqlain picked up 288 wickets in 169 ODIs, and his ability to outfox the best batters in the world earned him a special place in the history of spin bowling. He was a vital cog in Pakistan’s bowling arsenal during their successful campaigns in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
GOAT Pacer: Curtly Ambrose
When it comes to the greatest fast bowler in ODI cricket, Akram’s pick is the towering West Indian, Curtly Ambrose. Standing at 6’7″, Ambrose was an intimidating figure for opposition batters. His remarkable ability to extract bounce and seam movement from any surface made him a nightmare for batters.
Ambrose claimed 225 wickets in 176 ODIs, consistently troubling top-order batters with his pace and bounce. His disciplined line and length, combined with his imposing stature, made him a standout fast bowler in the history of ODI cricket.
