DHAKA: Pakistani fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar said he wants his iconic world record for the fastest delivery in international cricket, clocking over 161.3 km/h, broken.
The speedgun wishes Bangladesh pacer Taskin Ahmed to surpass his record, which has been unbeatable for a long time.
Akhtar, who holds the unbreakable record of 161.3 km/h bowled against England during the 2003 World Cup, is currently in Bangladesh for his maiden task in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) as mentor for the Dhaka Capitals.
Speaking ahead of the tournament, the 50-year-old “Rawalpindi Express” shared his excitement about joining the league for the first time.
“I’ve never been part of the BPL before, but I’ve heard that it’s doing great,” Akhtar said. “Finally, I had the opportunity to come here and be a part of it. I want to pass on whatever I’ve learned, especially about fast bowling, motivate the players, give them a few tricks to win matches, and elevate their mindset.”
With Taskin Ahmed signed as a direct player for the Dhaka Capitals, Akhtar will have the opportunity to work closely with one of Bangladesh’s premier fast bowlers.
“I want Taskin to break my speed record,” Akhtar declared passionately.
He also praised emerging talent Nahid Rana, highlighting the potential in Bangladesh’s pace attack.
“I have so far seen that in Taskin. He is looking very good; he is looking sharp, and he’s looking focused. And so is Nahid Rana,” Akhtar added.
“I think if he keeps on going with great training sessions and trains properly… I’ll give him advice at the same time if I ever see him. I’ll tell him the trades and secrets of training.”
Akhtar stated that attitude is key to success: “If he gets that, I think he will go far. But the most important is the attitude that you have towards life, and that reflects on the field.”
The 12th edition of the BPL is set to kick off on December 26, with Sylhet Titans facing Rajshahi Warriors at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.
