Wasim Akram Praises Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Questions PSL’s Batting Talent
- By Thetripurapost Desk, Karachi
- Sep 13, 2026
- 194
Former Pakistan fast bowler Wasim Akram has used Indian teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi as an example while highlighting what he believes is a major weakness in Pakistan cricket — the shortage of high-quality batting talent.
Akram questioned the Pakistan Super League’s record in producing elite batsmen since the tournament began, while arguing that Pakistan needs a stronger grassroots system to identify and develop young cricketers.
Wasim Akram Questions PSL’s Batting Output
Speaking to YouTuber Furkan Bhatti, Akram pointed to the contrasting development of bowlers and batsmen in Pakistan’s franchise cricket structure.
The former Pakistan captain questioned whether the Pakistan Super League (PSL) has produced enough outstanding batting talent during its 10-year journey.
Akram said Pakistan has managed to produce several good bowlers through its cricket system, but raised concerns about the lack of comparable batting stars emerging from the PSL.
His comments have brought renewed attention to Pakistan’s domestic cricket structure and the effectiveness of the PSL in developing the next generation of international-level players.
Vaibhav Suryavanshi Cited as an Example of Young Talent
Akram also referred to Vaibhav Suryavanshi while discussing the importance of developing batting talent from an early age.
The Indian youngster has attracted considerable attention for his performances at a remarkably young age. Akram, however, referred to Suryavanshi as 14 during the interview, although the player is actually 15.
Akram’s broader argument was that Pakistan needs to identify exceptional batting prospects early and provide them with the right coaching, competitive opportunities and infrastructure to reach the highest level.
Akram Wants Club Cricket Revived in Pakistan
According to Akram, the solution begins well below franchise cricket.
He stressed that club cricket remains a crucial source of talent and argued that Pakistan must strengthen the grassroots system if it wants to improve both Test cricket and the PSL.
Akram suggested that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) should make major investments in club cricket in Karachi and Lahore, where he believes a significant pool of cricketing talent exists.
He maintained that rebuilding the domestic pathway would give young players greater opportunities to develop before entering professional and international cricket.
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Akram’s IPL and PSL Experience
Akram’s assessment comes from extensive experience in franchise cricket.
He was associated with Kolkata Knight Riders as a bowling coach and mentor from 2010 to 2017. During that period, KKR won two IPL titles.
The former Pakistan fast bowler has also held coaching and mentoring roles with several PSL franchises, including Islamabad United, Multan Sultans and Karachi Kings.
His experience across both major South Asian franchise leagues gives added weight to his assessment of player development in the PSL.
Pakistan Face England Test Series Pressure
Pakistan are also under pressure on the international stage, having lost the opening two Tests of their three-match series against England.
The defeats have left Pakistan facing the possibility of a 3-0 series loss.
The third Test is being played at Edgbaston in Birmingham, with Pakistan needing a strong response to prevent England from completing a clean sweep.
The result of the series will add further focus on Pakistan’s batting depth, particularly as the country looks to build a stronger pipeline of players for Test cricket and franchise competitions.
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