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Cricket, often referred to as the gentleman’s game, has its own set of legends and iconic figures who have left an indelible mark on the sport. Among these legends stands Shoaib Akhtar, the Rawalpindi Express, known for his blistering pace and the world’s fastest delivery recorded in cricket history (161.3 km/hr). The former Pakistan fast bowler’s ability to send shivers down the spine of even the most accomplished batters was legendary, making him a fan favourite not just in Pakistan but across the globe.
Recently, the internet has been buzzing with the uncanny resemblance between Akhtar and a young bowler named Imran Muhammad. Imran, often dubbed Akhtar’s lookalike, shares a similar bowling action and hairstyle reminiscent of the 48-year-old’s early days in cricket.
Also READ: Harbhajan Singh, Shoaib Akhtar express shock at Yuzvendra Chahal’s absence from India’s squad for ODI World Cup 2023
A video of Imran bowling a ferocious bouncer went viral, leaving fans in awe of the striking similarity between the two.
Oman’s Speedster Mohamed Imran looks exactly like Shoaib Akthar in his early days. Even the bowling action looks very similar. All the best for him. @shoaib100mph pic.twitter.com/wZ8nPQcFmV
— Nibraz Ramzan (@nibraz88cricket) September 6, 2023
when the budget is low to hire real Shoaib 😂
— Saurabh@Maladkar (@rednov30) September 6, 2023
Shoaib akhtar is available in small sachet now 😂😜
— Mudassir Khan Lodhi (@Mdkl1976) September 7, 2023
Mujhe to Akhtar hi laga tha
— Devendra🇮🇳 (@Devendrakumar_) September 7, 2023
The Rawalpindi Express: A Cricketing Legend
Shoaib Akhtar’s career spanned over 163 One Day Internationals (ODIs), during which he claimed an impressive 247 wickets at an average of 24.97. His ability to consistently trouble batters with his searing pace and unpredictable bounce made him a nightmare for opponents. In Test cricket, he proved equally lethal, taking 178 wickets in 46 matches at an average of 25.69, which included an impressive 12 five-wicket hauls. The right-hander’s ability to deliver at crucial moments made him one of the most feared fast bowlers in the world.
The emergence of Imran as Akhtar’s lookalike highlights the enduring power of cricketing legends. It’s a testament to his impact that someone like Imran, a budding cricketer from Oman, can gain fame simply by resembling the veteran pacer from Pakistan.
