Wasim Akram or Ian Botham? Who was the better cricketer overall?

[Harsh Thakor]

It just came to my mind after the comparison between Wasim and Kallis another very close comparison could be between Wasim Akram and Ian Botham.Both were different types of cricketers.Arguably both under performed.Wasim was a more artistic ,quicker and versatile bowler but Botham could have been the more intelligent being a master at exploiting weaknesses of oponents.Botham was the more flamboyant and consistent batsmen who could turn the complexion of games 360 degrees with bat and ball silmunataneously like in the 1980 Jubilee test in Mumbai or in the 1981 Ashes series.Botham was more useful as a fielder being outstanding in the slips.tAt his best Botham was the more impactful being the ultimate man to create a sensational twist and turn in game like a total reversal of a plot in a Hollywod film.Botham scored many more centuries and had more 5 wicket hauls However Wasim was considerably less expensive and could conquer flat decks unlike Ian .However charismatic Botham did not match the wizardry of Wasim with the ball who took pace bowling skill and artistry to regions of the divine.Wasim played a major role in the rise of Pakistan as a major cricketing power challenging the world champion status of West Indies and to winning the world cup in 1992.England never won a world cup under Botham or challenged West Indies for the unofficial test world championship title.Botham failed against the best team of his day,West Indies .Wasim also succcesful led Pakistan for a period winning 50% of the tsets he led Pakistan unlike Botham who lost many tests in succes in without winning a single one.

For selection in an all-time test xi Wasim would be stronger candidate because of his left arm prowess.However to replace Gary Sobers at no 6 arguably Botham may be a more likely candidate than even Kallis wit his great match-wining flair.For an ODI all-time xi Wasim would be a unanimous choice .Thus in the end by a nose I would root for Botham because of all-round prowess.Combining tests and ODI's Wasim was statistically better but morally Botham was more impactful cricketer by a slender margin.At his best nonone posessed the extraordinary reserves of energy to ressurect a side from the grave to reach the pinnacle of glory as Botham.

Statistics compiled from S.Rajesh of cricinfo below


1AN BOTHAM

A career of two distinct halves Runs Average 100s/ 50s Wickets Average 5WI/ 10WM
First 51 Tests 2833 38.80 11/ 10 231 23.06 19/ 4
Next 37 Tests 1976 31.36 3/ 11 135 33.85 8/ 0
Last 14 Tests 391 20.57 0/ 1 17 57.52 0/ 0
Career (102 Tests) 5200 33.54 14/ 22 383 28.40 27/

During the six years when Botham was at his peak, he was the best of the four allrounders going around during that period. Imran Khan, Kapil Dev and Richard Hadlee were tremendous too - though Hadlee's best was to come later - but none of them matched Botham's consistency with bat and ball. During this period, the difference between Botham's batting and bowling average was 12.59. Imran and Hadlee had better bowling averages, but neither matched Botham as a batsman (though Imran's best as a batsman was to come later).

The four leading allrounders between Jan 1977 and Dec 1982 Player Tests Runs Average 100s/ 50s Wickets Average 5WI/ 10WM Diff in ave
Ian Botham 58 3229 37.11 11/ 13 262 24.52 20/ 4 12.59
Imran Khan 37 1429 29.16 1/ 4 186 21.79 13/ 3 7.37
Kapil Dev 44 1904 32.82 2/ 11 172 29.68 13/ 1 3.14
Richard Hadlee 23 767 21.91 1/ 4 114 23.22 11/
2 -1.31




WASIM AKRAM

World's greatest bowlers between Jan 1977 and Dec 1982 (Qual: 100 wickets) Bowler Tests Wickets Average Strike rate 5WI/ 10WM
Joel Garner 28 124 20.64 53.6 2/ 0
Imran Khan 37 186 21.79 51.6 13/ 3
Dennis Lillee 37 202 22.20 47.8 15/ 6
Richard Hadlee 23 114 23.22 55.5 11/ 2
Colin Croft 27 125 23.30 49.3 3/ 0
Bob Willis 59 226 23.49 51.4 13/ 0
Ian Botham 58 262 24.52 52.7 20/ 4

Best Test bowlers between Jan 1990 and Dec 1997 (Qual: 150 wickets) Bowler Tests Wickets Average Strike rate 5WI/ 10WM
Wasim Akram 48 240 20.05 46.4 16/ 3
Curtly Ambrose 57 247 20.50 52.8 17/ 3
Waqar Younis 46 232 21.23 40.1 19/ 4
Allan Donald 36 171 23.27 48.8 9/ 2
Glenn McGrath 36 164 23.42 53.0 9/ 0
Shane Warne 62 289 24.08 62.9 12/ 3


Akram's ODI career Period Matches Wickets Average Econ rate 4+ wkts
Till Dec 1991 107 143 23.97 3.84 5
Jan 1992 - Dec 1997 131 198 21.86 3.76 14
Jan 1998 onwards 118 161 25.17 4.09 4
Career 356 502 23.52 3.89 23

Best bowling averages in wins in ODIs (Qual: 150 wickets) Bowler ODIs Wickets Average Econ rate 4+ wkts
Saqlain Mushtaq 93 188 15.84 3.78 11
Glenn McGrath 171 301 17.94 3.65 15
Muttiah Muralitharan 191 347 18.08 3.63 21
Waqar Younis 149 278 18.76 4.33 21
Wasim Akram 199 326 18.86 3.70 18
Allan Donald 108 195 19.05 3.96 10

 

[Godhelpma]

It is no brainer .Akram , by some distance .

 

[Harsh Thakor]

It is no brainer .Akram , by some distance .

Distance?Was not Botham close to the best ever cricketer at his best ?Wasim was arguably the best of all paceman and arguably the best ODi paceman of all but as an all-round cricketer as impactful?

 

[JibranAnsari]

Botham was the best the cricket has ever seen in his first 50 test matches , he was an ultimate cricketer and as a cricketer he should be regarded above wasim akram.

 

[anoop]

Botham at his best would leave everyone behind barring Bradman.

 

[Ab Fan]

These comparisons are going nowhere. Another baseless comparison.

 

[Harsh Thakor]

These comparisons are going nowhere. Another baseless comparison.

Subjective ,debatable but why baseless? Both were great bowlers and capable batsmen.Are not 100 best cricketers rated?

 

[Ab Fan]

Subjective ,debatable but why baseless? Both were great bowlers and capable batsmen.Are not 100 best cricketers rated?

One is an genuine all-rounder who was a very good batsmen and a great bowler while the other is one of the greatest bowler of all-time and can bat a bit as well, but will be seen mostly as a fast bowler only.

You are comparing a specialist to all-rounder. Not the best of the comparisons.

 

[Tusker]

Subjective ,debatable but why baseless? Both were great bowlers and capable batsmen.Are not 100 best cricketers rated?

Do you even know what is a Debate and how to go about it?

 

[Romali_rotti]

During the six years when Botham was at his peak, he was the best of the four allrounders going around during that period.

Yeap agreed except when he faced the WI, then he became a deer in front of headlights...

 

[Mamoon]

Wasim. Would have been a close comparison had Botham not dragged his career.

 

[Harsh Thakor]

Wasim. Would have been a close comparison had Botham not dragged his career.

Did not Botham still have better all-round stats.Remember decline of Wasim after 1998.Also Botham more impactful in wins.14 centuries and over 5000 runs as well as 383 wickets with 27 5 wicket hauls speaks for itself.Best performances overshadow Wasim.

 

[MMHS]

Did not Botham still have better all-round stats.Remember decline of Wasim after 1998.Also Botham more impactful in wins.14 centuries and over 5000 runs as well as 383 wickets with 27 5 wicket hauls speaks for itself.Best performances overshadow Wasim.

His best 5-6 years were indeed outstanding, but it had lots of soft stats also. He demolished packer reject PAK & AUS and the 1981 Ashes that made Brearley immortal- Aussies were actually without Greg.

This topic is the best cricketer- in Test, I think it’s almost equal with Botham having a higher peak and Wasim having a longer career at highest level; but if you add ODI in it, it’s not even a fair contest. Botham for his unreal capacity, should have been the best ever ODI all-rounder, but may be he didn’t take it seriously, something common for Imran as well - may be they started in 70s, instead of 80s-90s is the reason. Before 90s, ODI was hardly considered as serious cricket.

 

[Hasan123]

Wasim Akram

 

[Robert]

Sir Ian Botham. Much better batsman, not as good a bowler even in his heyday, much better catcher.

Wasim is highly overated on this board - I suspect for two deliveries in a WC Final which few here were old enough to watch.

 

[gazza619]

Botham was a more honest cricketer throughout his career giving his all in every game. As much as loved Wasim, I don't think I can say the same about him.

 

[Harsh Thakor]

Is not Botham an all time great as an allrounder?

 

[Joseph Gomes]

Wasim Akram. Botham was a dud last 5 years of his career (1 century and 2 5-wkt haul in 23 matches). Less said about Botham's ODI the better.

 

[GLORY OF '92]

Sir Ian Botham. Much better batsman, not as good a bowler even in his heyday, much better catcher.

Wasim is highly overated on this board - I suspect for two deliveries in a WC Final which few here were old enough to watch.

Surprisingly poor post.

Wasim is rated by many other greats as one of the greatest ever. Countless articles.

Also when it really counted in the final he got Botham.

 

[Robert]

Surprisingly poor post.

Wasim is rated by many other greats as one of the greatest ever. Countless articles.

Also when it really counted in the final he got Botham.

Your username gives it away really.

Wasim isn’t even the best fast bowler from Pakistan.

 

[Asif khan]

Sir Ian Botham. Much better batsman, not as good a bowler even in his heyday, much better catcher.

Wasim is highly overated on this board - I suspect for two deliveries in a WC Final which few here were old enough to watch.

Try telling that to your countrymen who faced him in his era. To a man, they all rate Wasim, as not only the best Pakistani bowler but probably the best fast bowler they ever faced.

 

[austerlitz]

Akram.

 

[ManFan]

Botham was not even the best bowler or all-rounder of his time.

His lazy fitness, carefree approach, and lacksadasical latter part of his career is enough for Wasim to override him.

And [MENTION=7774]Robert[/MENTION], if you want to talk about Waz being remembered for his 92’ exploits only than the same could be said about Botham eleven years prior.

 

[Bilal7]

Is not Botham an all time great as an allrounder?

In the opinion of some, yes. However, he is not in the league of all-rounders like Imran or Kallis and therefore, is not better than Wasim.

 

[Harsh Thakor]

In the opinion of some, yes. However, he is not in the league of all-rounders like Imran or Kallis and therefore, is not better than Wasim.

At his best almost the equal of Sobers with the best ever performance in a single test and series.literally ressurecting England from the grave to the pinnacle of glory.

 

[Robert]

Try telling that to your countrymen who faced him in his era. To a man, they all rate Wasim, as not only the best Pakistani bowler but probably the best fast bowler they ever faced.

Simply untrue. For examples, Gower rates Andy Roberts as the best he faced. Botham rates Lillee the highest. Lamb says Marshall first, Garner second and Ambrose third.

Wasim averaged over 30 against England, strike rate 70.

 

[Harsh Thakor]

In the opinion of some, yes. However, he is not in the league of all-rounders like Imran or Kallis and therefore, is not better than Wasim.

At his peak Botham turned more games with both ball and bat than Imran or Kallis. See his performances from 1977-82.

 

[Harsh Thakor]

Surprisingly poor post.

Wasim is rated by many other greats as one of the greatest ever. Countless articles.

Also when it really counted in the final he got Botham.

Many experts rank
Botham next to only Sobers amongst allrounder at his peak.In list of 109 best cricketers both Geoff Armstrong and Cristopher Martin Jenkins rate him above Wasim at about 18th place with Wasim around 30th.Read what so many cricketers said about Botham like Richard Hadlee,Mike Procter,Dean Jones or even Gary Sobers.

 

[Robert]

In the opinion of some, yes. However, he is not in the league of all-rounders like Imran or Kallis and therefore, is not better than Wasim.

If you can remember Sir Ian, I suspect it will be an overweight bloke bowling military medium in ODIs.

Yet he was the quickest to 100 wickets in tests, the quickest to 200 and the world record holder for a while. Add to that fourteen test centuries in a hard era (Imran got six) and 120 catches.

Wasim hit three centuries (one minnowbashing) and held 44 catches.

 

[The Viper]

Botham if we consider him as a complete package

 

[Harsh Thakor]

Botham if we consider him as a complete package

Well put sir.fair judgement.

 

[Harsh Thakor]

If you can remember Sir Ian, I suspect it will be an overweight bloke bowling military medium in ODIs.

Yet he was the quickest to 100 wickets in tests, the quickest to 200 and the world record holder for a while. Add to that fourteen test centuries in a hard era (Imran got six) and 120 catches.

Wasim hit three centuries (one minnowbashing) and held 44 catches.

Also quickest to achieve double of 100 runs and 100 wickets in a mere 23 tests as well as 300 wickets and 2000 runs in 55 tests.

 

[ManFan]

If you can remember Sir Ian, I suspect it will be an overweight bloke bowling military medium in ODIs.

Yet he was the quickest to 100 wickets in tests, the quickest to 200 and the world record holder for a while. Add to that fourteen test centuries in a hard era (Imran got six) and 120 catches.

Wasim hit three centuries (one minnowbashing) and held 44 catches.

All of Wasim’s centuries were class.

The “minnow-bashing” one set a world record that remains unbeaten and saved his side form a humiliating defeat to turn it into a crushing victory.

And Wasim averages 30.67 against England (only country whom he averages 30+ while Botham averages 32 against Pakistan and 35 against West Indies).

 

[ManFan]

from*

 

[Asif khan]

Simply untrue. For examples, Gower rates Andy Roberts as the best he faced. Botham rates Lillee the highest. Lamb says Marshall first, Garner second and Ambrose third.

Wasim averaged over 30 against England, strike rate 70.

What about Atherton, Hussain, Fairbrother, Alec Stewart, Jack Russell, Robin Smith to name a few? They're just the names on top off my head... Every single one of them are in agreement Wasim was simply different class. It's you that under-rates him, you always have.

 

[Buffet]

I will take Wasim over Botham.

 

[Justcrazy]

Botham as a cricketer .

Wasim underachieved with bat.

 

[Harsh Thakor]

Botham as a cricketer .

Wasim underachieved with bat.

Well said.

 

[Hitman]

Ian Botham.

 

[anoop]

Botham in tests.

 

[Robert]

What about Atherton, Hussain, Fairbrother, Alec Stewart, Jack Russell, Robin Smith to name a few? They're just the names on top off my head... Every single one of them are in agreement Wasim was simply different class. It's you that under-rates him, you always have.

Ah, so not “to a man” then. Stewart rated Wasim equally with Marshall by the way, though he only faced the Bajan right at the end of his career after he had lost pace.

I don’t underrate Wasim at all. I don’t put him at the top of the pile like everyone round here seems to do even though most never saw him bowl like I did for series after series. Average 30, strike rate 70 tells a story. If those men say Wasim was in a different class it is curious that they handed him better than they did Ambrose and Walsh, for instances. Against England, Imran and Waqar were the real hard men.

 

[Ab Fan]

The peer reputation which Wasim had is unmatchable to anyone who has played the game. Just some of the thoughts I would like to put in:-

Over my 15 or 16 years of playing international cricket in Tests and One Day Internationals, Wasim Akram is definitely the most outstanding bowler I've ever faced.
– Former West Indies batsman Brian Lara

I have always rated Wasim as the best bowler I have ever faced. I saw him at the back end of my career and I have no regret in saying this but I am glad that was in the retirement lane at that time because I think he was very special. It just wasn’t about swing or accuracy, it was about the aggression that he brought as well. He was quick as any on a given day and I just felt he had a lot offer. Like I said, I’m just glad that he came at a time that I was ready to go.
– Former West Indies batsman Viv Richards

In December 2012 after Ricky Ponting announced his retirement he said that Wasim Akram and Curtly Ambrose were the toughest bowlers he had faced[74] "Akram for the exact opposite, you could get a few runs off him, but you just knew there was an unplayable ball around the corner, be it with an old ball or with a new ball," – Ricky Ponting.

Speaking on the Howie Games podcast, Kumar Sangakkara revealed Pakistan great Wasim Akram as the most difficult bowler he encountered during his 594-game international career.

"I think I've faced Wasim Akram only a few times (but he was) immensely difficult,” Sangakkara said.

"It's strange you know, when you pick your bowlers or the people think, if you take Akram on the Test wicket tally, he's nowhere near the top.

"He's 12th, but you ask any batsman around the world and his name always comes up.

"He was an absolute genius."

In an interview with South African Ali Bacher when Kallis was asked about the best fast bowlers that he faced and were named to pick between Courtney Walsh, Curtley Ambrose, Glenn McGrath, Brett Lee, Wasim and Waqar:-

“Kallis did not take a second to respond to my question and named Wasim Akram as the best and Waqar his opening partner as a very good bowler,” said Bacher. “It did not surprise me, Kallis certainly was spot on because the Ws pair was so good and fascinating to watch.”

Wasim Akram is one of my all-time favourite bowlers and any team that I would select comprising of the world’s best cricketers, Wasim Akram has to be in it. I’ve seen Wasim Akram do things with a cricket ball that people like me and others cannot really do. He was such a great bowler and I have a lot of admiration and respect for him, said Curtly Ambrose."

England all-rounder Ian Botham on Akram's 1992 heroics:

The one player who really stood out for me was Wasim Akram. It was in that tournament that we realised just what a special talent he was and how much trouble he was going to give us and the rest of the world in the years to come.

Pretty much every single contemporary of Wasim, the likes of Donald, Ambrose, McGrath all rates them as the toughest, most complete and most skillful bowler of all time.

Then you have got the likes of VVS, Mahela and many other cricketers around the world rating Wasim as the toughest bowlers they faced.

As I have said, in an all-time XI, I would pick Wasim as one of the first names and consider him as the greatest bowler Pakistan has ever produced. Imran, as an overall package may be superior but in an all-time XI, I will give it to Wasim first and then Imran.

 

[Harsh Thakor]

The peer reputation which Wasim had is unmatchable to anyone who has played the game. Just some of the thoughts I would like to put in:-

Over my 15 or 16 years of playing international cricket in Tests and One Day Internationals, Wasim Akram is definitely the most outstanding bowler I've ever faced.
– Former West Indies batsman Brian Lara

I have always rated Wasim as the best bowler I have ever faced. I saw him at the back end of my career and I have no regret in saying this but I am glad that was in the retirement lane at that time because I think he was very special. It just wasn’t about swing or accuracy, it was about the aggression that he brought as well. He was quick as any on a given day and I just felt he had a lot offer. Like I said, I’m just glad that he came at a time that I was ready to go.
– Former West Indies batsman Viv Richards

In December 2012 after Ricky Ponting announced his retirement he said that Wasim Akram and Curtly Ambrose were the toughest bowlers he had faced[74] "Akram for the exact opposite, you could get a few runs off him, but you just knew there was an unplayable ball around the corner, be it with an old ball or with a new ball," – Ricky Ponting.

Speaking on the Howie Games podcast, Kumar Sangakkara revealed Pakistan great Wasim Akram as the most difficult bowler he encountered during his 594-game international career.

"I think I've faced Wasim Akram only a few times (but he was) immensely difficult,” Sangakkara said.

"It's strange you know, when you pick your bowlers or the people think, if you take Akram on the Test wicket tally, he's nowhere near the top.

"He's 12th, but you ask any batsman around the world and his name always comes up.

"He was an absolute genius."

In an interview with South African Ali Bacher when Kallis was asked about the best fast bowlers that he faced and were named to pick between Courtney Walsh, Curtley Ambrose, Glenn McGrath, Brett Lee, Wasim and Waqar:-

“Kallis did not take a second to respond to my question and named Wasim Akram as the best and Waqar his opening partner as a very good bowler,” said Bacher. “It did not surprise me, Kallis certainly was spot on because the Ws pair was so good and fascinating to watch.”

Wasim Akram is one of my all-time favourite bowlers and any team that I would select comprising of the world’s best cricketers, Wasim Akram has to be in it. I’ve seen Wasim Akram do things with a cricket ball that people like me and others cannot really do. He was such a great bowler and I have a lot of admiration and respect for him, said Curtly Ambrose."

England all-rounder Ian Botham on Akram's 1992 heroics:

The one player who really stood out for me was Wasim Akram. It was in that tournament that we realised just what a special talent he was and how much trouble he was going to give us and the rest of the world in the years to come.

Pretty much every single contemporary of Wasim, the likes of Donald, Ambrose, McGrath all rates them as the toughest, most complete and most skillful bowler of all time.

Then you have got the likes of VVS, Mahela and many other cricketers around the world rating Wasim as the toughest bowlers they faced.

As I have said, in an all-time XI, I would pick Wasim as one of the first names and consider him as the greatest bowler Pakistan has ever produced. Imran, as an overall package may be superior but in an all-time XI, I will give it to Wasim first and then Imran.

Great post.Wasim more eligible for all time xi being a left arm bowler giving variety but that would not make him better or equal overall to Botham,Imran or maybe even Lara.Botham would be my 1st choice to replace Sobers at no 6. With his ability to turn games with both ball and bat.Never forget the adulation Botham also received in his time with many greats choosing him in their all time test xi.

 

[Ab Fan]

Great post.Wasim more eligible for all time xi being a left arm bowler giving variety but that would not make him better or equal overall to Botham,Imran or maybe even Lara.Botham would be my 1st choice to replace Sobers at no 6. With his ability to turn games with both ball and bat.Never forget the adulation Botham also received in his time with many greats choosing him in their all time test xi.

The thing is Botham is not competing with Wasim for any position in XI. Wasim is your no.8 or 9 while Botham will always be your no.6 or 7. This is why I said this is a completely baseless comparison. You just cant compare a specialist bowler to an all-rounder.

 

[Harsh Thakor]

The peer reputation which Wasim had is unmatchable to anyone who has played the game. Just some of the thoughts I would like to put in:-

Over my 15 or 16 years of playing international cricket in Tests and One Day Internationals, Wasim Akram is definitely the most outstanding bowler I've ever faced.
– Former West Indies batsman Brian Lara

I have always rated Wasim as the best bowler I have ever faced. I saw him at the back end of my career and I have no regret in saying this but I am glad that was in the retirement lane at that time because I think he was very special. It just wasn’t about swing or accuracy, it was about the aggression that he brought as well. He was quick as any on a given day and I just felt he had a lot offer. Like I said, I’m just glad that he came at a time that I was ready to go.
– Former West Indies batsman Viv Richards

In December 2012 after Ricky Ponting announced his retirement he said that Wasim Akram and Curtly Ambrose were the toughest bowlers he had faced[74] "Akram for the exact opposite, you could get a few runs off him, but you just knew there was an unplayable ball around the corner, be it with an old ball or with a new ball," – Ricky Ponting.

Speaking on the Howie Games podcast, Kumar Sangakkara revealed Pakistan great Wasim Akram as the most difficult bowler he encountered during his 594-game international career.

"I think I've faced Wasim Akram only a few times (but he was) immensely difficult,” Sangakkara said.

"It's strange you know, when you pick your bowlers or the people think, if you take Akram on the Test wicket tally, he's nowhere near the top.

"He's 12th, but you ask any batsman around the world and his name always comes up.

"He was an absolute genius."

In an interview with South African Ali Bacher when Kallis was asked about the best fast bowlers that he faced and were named to pick between Courtney Walsh, Curtley Ambrose, Glenn McGrath, Brett Lee, Wasim and Waqar:-

“Kallis did not take a second to respond to my question and named Wasim Akram as the best and Waqar his opening partner as a very good bowler,” said Bacher. “It did not surprise me, Kallis certainly was spot on because the Ws pair was so good and fascinating to watch.”

Wasim Akram is one of my all-time favourite bowlers and any team that I would select comprising of the world’s best cricketers, Wasim Akram has to be in it. I’ve seen Wasim Akram do things with a cricket ball that people like me and others cannot really do. He was such a great bowler and I have a lot of admiration and respect for him, said Curtly Ambrose."

England all-rounder Ian Botham on Akram's 1992 heroics:

The one player who really stood out for me was Wasim Akram. It was in that tournament that we realised just what a special talent he was and how much trouble he was going to give us and the rest of the world in the years to come.

Pretty much every single contemporary of Wasim, the likes of Donald, Ambrose, McGrath all rates them as the toughest, most complete and most skillful bowler of all time.

Then you have got the likes of VVS, Mahela and many other cricketers around the world rating Wasim as the toughest bowlers they faced.

As I have said, in an all-time XI, I would pick Wasim as one of the first names and consider him as the greatest bowler Pakistan has ever produced. Imran, as an overall package may be superior but in an all-time XI, I will give it to Wasim first and then Imran.

Ah, so not “to a man” then. Stewart rated Wasim equally with Marshall by the way, though he only faced the Bajan right at the end of his career after he had lost pace.

I don’t underrate Wasim at all. I don’t put him at the top of the pile like everyone round here seems to do even though most never saw him bowl like I did for series after series. Average 30, strike rate 70 tells a story. If those men say Wasim was in a different class it is curious that they handed him better than they did Ambrose and Walsh, for instances. Against England, Imran and Waqar were the real hard men.

Mere statistics do not reflect the true story as for the very greatest Like Viv and Lara Wasim was the hardest to face.Combining tests and ODI s he may be better but I feel more emphasis should be given to test cricket so Botham ranks ahead.As a pure paceman Wasim overshadowed Imran,Waqar ,McGrath and maybe even Marshall or Lillee.In peak period he was ahead of Waqar,Donald and Ambrose.

 

[Robert]

The thing is Botham is not competing with Wasim for any position in XI. Wasim is your no.8 or 9 while Botham will always be your no.6 or 7. This is why I said this is a completely baseless comparison. You just cant compare a specialist bowler to an all-rounder.

You’re right, the two cannot be compared, it’s apples and oranges. You want both of them.

 

[Robert]

As a pure paceman Wasim overshadowed Imran,Waqar ,McGrath and maybe even Marshall or Lillee.In peak period he was ahead of Waqar,Donald and Ambrose.

Yet they all have better figures than him.

 

[Asif khan]

Ah, so not “to a man” then. Stewart rated Wasim equally with Marshall by the way, though he only faced the Bajan right at the end of his career after he had lost pace.

I don’t underrate Wasim at all. I don’t put him at the top of the pile like everyone round here seems to do even though most never saw him bowl like I did for series after series. Average 30, strike rate 70 tells a story. If those men say Wasim was in a different class it is curious that they handed him better than they did Ambrose and Walsh, for instances. Against England, Imran and Waqar were the real hard men.

Ah so 'not' only rated on here then? Funny you bring up stats for Wasim but fail to bring Botham's up against Windies and Pakistan, eh? Anyway, if you watched him bowl series after like which you think others haven't, then you must also remember there wasn't an over bowled where Wasim probably didn't beat the outside edge of the bat at least once. In other words he was too good to nick half the time. I watched every series and whilst Waqar was great, even he admits Wasim was in a different league. If you can't appreciate skill then that's your problem.

 

[mak36]

The peer reputation which Wasim had is unmatchable to anyone who has played the game. Just some of the thoughts I would like to put in:-

Over my 15 or 16 years of playing international cricket in Tests and One Day Internationals, Wasim Akram is definitely the most outstanding bowler I've ever faced.
– Former West Indies batsman Brian Lara

I have always rated Wasim as the best bowler I have ever faced. I saw him at the back end of my career and I have no regret in saying this but I am glad that was in the retirement lane at that time because I think he was very special. It just wasnÂ’t about swing or accuracy, it was about the aggression that he brought as well. He was quick as any on a given day and I just felt he had a lot offer. Like I said, IÂ’m just glad that he came at a time that I was ready to go.
– Former West Indies batsman Viv Richards

In December 2012 after Ricky Ponting announced his retirement he said that Wasim Akram and Curtly Ambrose were the toughest bowlers he had faced[74] "Akram for the exact opposite, you could get a few runs off him, but you just knew there was an unplayable ball around the corner, be it with an old ball or with a new ball," – Ricky Ponting.

Speaking on the Howie Games podcast, Kumar Sangakkara revealed Pakistan great Wasim Akram as the most difficult bowler he encountered during his 594-game international career.

"I think I've faced Wasim Akram only a few times (but he was) immensely difficult,” Sangakkara said.

"It's strange you know, when you pick your bowlers or the people think, if you take Akram on the Test wicket tally, he's nowhere near the top.

"He's 12th, but you ask any batsman around the world and his name always comes up.

"He was an absolute genius."

In an interview with South African Ali Bacher when Kallis was asked about the best fast bowlers that he faced and were named to pick between Courtney Walsh, Curtley Ambrose, Glenn McGrath, Brett Lee, Wasim and Waqar:-

“Kallis did not take a second to respond to my question and named Wasim Akram as the best and Waqar his opening partner as a very good bowler,” said Bacher. “It did not surprise me, Kallis certainly was spot on because the Ws pair was so good and fascinating to watch.”

Wasim Akram is one of my all-time favourite bowlers and any team that I would select comprising of the worldÂ’s best cricketers, Wasim Akram has to be in it. IÂ’ve seen Wasim Akram do things with a cricket ball that people like me and others cannot really do. He was such a great bowler and I have a lot of admiration and respect for him, said Curtly Ambrose."

England all-rounder Ian Botham on Akram's 1992 heroics:

The one player who really stood out for me was Wasim Akram. It was in that tournament that we realised just what a special talent he was and how much trouble he was going to give us and the rest of the world in the years to come.

Pretty much every single contemporary of Wasim, the likes of Donald, Ambrose, McGrath all rates them as the toughest, most complete and most skillful bowler of all time.

Then you have got the likes of VVS, Mahela and many other cricketers around the world rating Wasim as the toughest bowlers they faced.

As I have said, in an all-time XI, I would pick Wasim as one of the first names and consider him as the greatest bowler Pakistan has ever produced. Imran, as an overall package may be superior but in an all-time XI, I will give it to Wasim first and then Imran.

Well what do they know? They are only some of the greatest cricketers the world has ever seen who also happened to have faced Wasim.

But [MENTION=7774]Robert[/MENTION] has the advantage of having watched Wasim so he would know best.

 

[Asif khan]

The peer reputation which Wasim had is unmatchable to anyone who has played the game. Just some of the thoughts I would like to put in:-

Over my 15 or 16 years of playing international cricket in Tests and One Day Internationals, Wasim Akram is definitely the most outstanding bowler I've ever faced.
– Former West Indies batsman Brian Lara

I have always rated Wasim as the best bowler I have ever faced. I saw him at the back end of my career and I have no regret in saying this but I am glad that was in the retirement lane at that time because I think he was very special. It just wasnÂ’t about swing or accuracy, it was about the aggression that he brought as well. He was quick as any on a given day and I just felt he had a lot offer. Like I said, IÂ’m just glad that he came at a time that I was ready to go.
– Former West Indies batsman Viv Richards

In December 2012 after Ricky Ponting announced his retirement he said that Wasim Akram and Curtly Ambrose were the toughest bowlers he had faced[74] "Akram for the exact opposite, you could get a few runs off him, but you just knew there was an unplayable ball around the corner, be it with an old ball or with a new ball," – Ricky Ponting.

Speaking on the Howie Games podcast, Kumar Sangakkara revealed Pakistan great Wasim Akram as the most difficult bowler he encountered during his 594-game international career.

"I think I've faced Wasim Akram only a few times (but he was) immensely difficult,” Sangakkara said.

"It's strange you know, when you pick your bowlers or the people think, if you take Akram on the Test wicket tally, he's nowhere near the top.

"He's 12th, but you ask any batsman around the world and his name always comes up.

"He was an absolute genius."

In an interview with South African Ali Bacher when Kallis was asked about the best fast bowlers that he faced and were named to pick between Courtney Walsh, Curtley Ambrose, Glenn McGrath, Brett Lee, Wasim and Waqar:-

“Kallis did not take a second to respond to my question and named Wasim Akram as the best and Waqar his opening partner as a very good bowler,” said Bacher. “It did not surprise me, Kallis certainly was spot on because the Ws pair was so good and fascinating to watch.”

Wasim Akram is one of my all-time favourite bowlers and any team that I would select comprising of the worldÂ’s best cricketers, Wasim Akram has to be in it. IÂ’ve seen Wasim Akram do things with a cricket ball that people like me and others cannot really do. He was such a great bowler and I have a lot of admiration and respect for him, said Curtly Ambrose."

England all-rounder Ian Botham on Akram's 1992 heroics:

The one player who really stood out for me was Wasim Akram. It was in that tournament that we realised just what a special talent he was and how much trouble he was going to give us and the rest of the world in the years to come.

Pretty much every single contemporary of Wasim, the likes of Donald, Ambrose, McGrath all rates them as the toughest, most complete and most skillful bowler of all time.

Then you have got the likes of VVS, Mahela and many other cricketers around the world rating Wasim as the toughest bowlers they faced.

As I have said, in an all-time XI, I would pick Wasim as one of the first names and consider him as the greatest bowler Pakistan has ever produced. Imran, as an overall package may be superior but in an all-time XI, I will give it to Wasim first and then Imran.

But but but Robert said : Wasim is highly overated on this board - I suspect for two deliveries in a WC Final which few here were old enough to watch.

 

[MMHS]

The peer reputation which Wasim had is unmatchable to anyone who has played the game. Just some of the thoughts I would like to put in:-

Over my 15 or 16 years of playing international cricket in Tests and One Day Internationals, Wasim Akram is definitely the most outstanding bowler I've ever faced.
– Former West Indies batsman Brian Lara

I have always rated Wasim as the best bowler I have ever faced. I saw him at the back end of my career and I have no regret in saying this but I am glad that was in the retirement lane at that time because I think he was very special. It just wasn’t about swing or accuracy, it was about the aggression that he brought as well. He was quick as any on a given day and I just felt he had a lot offer. Like I said, I’m just glad that he came at a time that I was ready to go.
– Former West Indies batsman Viv Richards

In December 2012 after Ricky Ponting announced his retirement he said that Wasim Akram and Curtly Ambrose were the toughest bowlers he had faced[74] "Akram for the exact opposite, you could get a few runs off him, but you just knew there was an unplayable ball around the corner, be it with an old ball or with a new ball," – Ricky Ponting.

Speaking on the Howie Games podcast, Kumar Sangakkara revealed Pakistan great Wasim Akram as the most difficult bowler he encountered during his 594-game international career.

"I think I've faced Wasim Akram only a few times (but he was) immensely difficult,” Sangakkara said.

"It's strange you know, when you pick your bowlers or the people think, if you take Akram on the Test wicket tally, he's nowhere near the top.

"He's 12th, but you ask any batsman around the world and his name always comes up.

"He was an absolute genius."

In an interview with South African Ali Bacher when Kallis was asked about the best fast bowlers that he faced and were named to pick between Courtney Walsh, Curtley Ambrose, Glenn McGrath, Brett Lee, Wasim and Waqar:-

“Kallis did not take a second to respond to my question and named Wasim Akram as the best and Waqar his opening partner as a very good bowler,” said Bacher. “It did not surprise me, Kallis certainly was spot on because the Ws pair was so good and fascinating to watch.”

Wasim Akram is one of my all-time favourite bowlers and any team that I would select comprising of the world’s best cricketers, Wasim Akram has to be in it. I’ve seen Wasim Akram do things with a cricket ball that people like me and others cannot really do. He was such a great bowler and I have a lot of admiration and respect for him, said Curtly Ambrose."

England all-rounder Ian Botham on Akram's 1992 heroics:

The one player who really stood out for me was Wasim Akram. It was in that tournament that we realised just what a special talent he was and how much trouble he was going to give us and the rest of the world in the years to come.

Pretty much every single contemporary of Wasim, the likes of Donald, Ambrose, McGrath all rates them as the toughest, most complete and most skillful bowler of all time.

Then you have got the likes of VVS, Mahela and many other cricketers around the world rating Wasim as the toughest bowlers they faced.

As I have said, in an all-time XI, I would pick Wasim as one of the first names and consider him as the greatest bowler Pakistan has ever produced. Imran, as an overall package may be superior but in an all-time XI, I will give it to Wasim first and then Imran.

You can add one more - after retirement, Mark Waugh was asked about any unfulfilled dream or something like that - his answer was that, he would like to be born again as Wasim Akram.

 

[Asif khan]

You can add one more - after retirement, Mark Waugh was asked about any unfulfilled dream or something like that - his answer was that, he would like to be born again as Wasim Akram.

Mark Waugh rates him the best BUT I think that was Alan Border that said he would like to reincarnate as Wasim.

 

[Robert]

Ah so 'not' only rated on here then? Funny you bring up stats for Wasim but fail to bring Botham's up against Windies and Pakistan, eh? Anyway, if you watched him bowl series after like which you think others haven't, then you must also remember there wasn't an over bowled where Wasim probably didn't beat the outside edge of the bat at least once. In other words he was too good to nick half the time. I watched every series and whilst Waqar was great, even he admits Wasim was in a different league. If you can't appreciate skill then that's your problem.

Well what’s the point of being too good to get a nick?

I never said Wasim was not a great bowler. Just not as good as his fan club here claim.

 

[Ab Fan]

Well what do they know? They are only some of the greatest cricketers the world has ever seen who also happened to have faced Wasim.

But [MENTION=7774]Robert[/MENTION] has the advantage of having watched Wasim so he would know best.

[MENTION=7774]Robert[/MENTION] is an Englishman. Wasim's record was the worst against England, which is why he rates Waqar and Imran higher than Wasim. However, he delivered against England when it mattered the most, i.e. WC 1992 final.

Australians don't rate Donald and Pollock that highly for a same reason.

Everyone can have their opinions.

 

[Ab Fan]

You can add one more - after retirement, Mark Waugh was asked about any unfulfilled dream or something like that - his answer was that, he would like to be born again as Wasim Akram.

It was actually Allan Border, who said that:-

If I ever get a chance to be reborn as a cricketer, I would want to be Wasim Akram.” – former Australian captain and a batting legend Allan Border

 

[MMHS]

Mark Waugh rates him the best BUT I think that was Alan Border that said he would like to reincarnate as Wasim.

May be - that adds one more great name in the list.

I later heard Richie Benaud talking about that 1990 MCG Test and he said - “in my memory, I haven’t seen a bowler bowling so may unplayable balls in an over, spell, day, innings or Test”.

 

[Nikhil_cric]

Wasim. Not even a comparison to be frank.

 

[Asif khan]

May be - that adds one more great name in the list.

I later heard Richie Benaud talking about that 1990 MCG Test and he said - “in my memory, I haven’t seen a bowler bowling so may unplayable balls in an over, spell, day, innings or Test”.

I watched it live, it wasn't just the skill that was on show that day but the pace. It got to a stage where the batsmen, the likes of Dean Jones and Steve Waugh were backing away from the stumps.

 

[Asif khan]

Well what’s the point of being too good to get a nick?

I never said Wasim was not a great bowler. Just not as good as his fan club here claim.

What about his peers who seem to part of the fan club, what do ya say about that?

 

[Robert]

What about his peers who seem to part of the fan club, what do ya say about that?

It's interesting - they seem to give him more props than to guys who got them out for fewer runs than he did. I suppose they never felt 'in' against him, but other bowlers were more likely do get them out despite that.
[MENTION=134300]Tusker[/MENTION] is always telling me not to listen to subjective opinion

 

[Asif khan]

It's interesting - they seem to give him more props than to guys who got them out for fewer runs than he did.

Then you haven't seen him against the likes of Lara, Waugh brothers, Taylor, Border etc etc. He wasn't just all over them. he frequently dismissed them

I suppose they never felt 'in' against him, but other bowlers were more likely do get them out despite that.

Same as above.

[MENTION=134300]Tusker[/MENTION] is always telling me not to listen to subjective opinion

Yet you're subjective opinion that Botham is superior to Wasim carries less weight given his record against Pakistan and Windies.

 

[Tusker]

It's interesting - they seem to give him more props than to guys who got them out for fewer runs than he did. I suppose they never felt 'in' against him, but other bowlers were more likely do get them out despite that.
[MENTION=134300]Tusker[/MENTION] is always telling me not to listen to subjective opinion

I also back that up with facts after which you will predictably run away from the thread (Something that you will do right now ) .

I always wonder what you and your like minded buddies ( [MENTION=132916]Junaids[/MENTION] @bujhe kom etc ) might have said if you were able to back up your tall stories about old era cricketers.

 

[Bilal7]

If you can remember Sir Ian, I suspect it will be an overweight bloke bowling military medium in ODIs.

Yet he was the quickest to 100 wickets in tests, the quickest to 200 and the world record holder for a while. Add to that fourteen test centuries in a hard era (Imran got six) and 120 catches.

Wasim hit three centuries (one minnowbashing) and held 44 catches.

Botham would walk into any current team in the world. He was a great player but I just don't see him as a superior player to Wasim Akram. Also, catching is not really all there is to fielding. Inzamam probably has more catches than a lot of players who were better fielders simply by virtue of standing in the slips.

 

[Harsh Thakor]

The peer reputation which Wasim had is unmatchable to anyone who has played the game. Just some of the thoughts I would like to put in:-

Over my 15 or 16 years of playing international cricket in Tests and One Day Internationals, Wasim Akram is definitely the most outstanding bowler I've ever faced.
– Former West Indies batsman Brian Lara

I have always rated Wasim as the best bowler I have ever faced. I saw him at the back end of my career and I have no regret in saying this but I am glad that was in the retirement lane at that time because I think he was very special. It just wasn’t about swing or accuracy, it was about the aggression that he brought as well. He was quick as any on a given day and I just felt he had a lot offer. Like I said, I’m just glad that he came at a time that I was ready to go.
– Former West Indies batsman Viv Richards

In December 2012 after Ricky Ponting announced his retirement he said that Wasim Akram and Curtly Ambrose were the toughest bowlers he had faced[74] "Akram for the exact opposite, you could get a few runs off him, but you just knew there was an unplayable ball around the corner, be it with an old ball or with a new ball," – Ricky Ponting.

Speaking on the Howie Games podcast, Kumar Sangakkara revealed Pakistan great Wasim Akram as the most difficult bowler he encountered during his 594-game international career.

"I think I've faced Wasim Akram only a few times (but he was) immensely difficult,” Sangakkara said.

"It's strange you know, when you pick your bowlers or the people think, if you take Akram on the Test wicket tally, he's nowhere near the top.

"He's 12th, but you ask any batsman around the world and his name always comes up.

"He was an absolute genius."

In an interview with South African Ali Bacher when Kallis was asked about the best fast bowlers that he faced and were named to pick between Courtney Walsh, Curtley Ambrose, Glenn McGrath, Brett Lee, Wasim and Waqar:-

“Kallis did not take a second to respond to my question and named Wasim Akram as the best and Waqar his opening partner as a very good bowler,” said Bacher. “It did not surprise me, Kallis certainly was spot on because the Ws pair was so good and fascinating to watch.”

Wasim Akram is one of my all-time favourite bowlers and any team that I would select comprising of the world’s best cricketers, Wasim Akram has to be in it. I’ve seen Wasim Akram do things with a cricket ball that people like me and others cannot really do. He was such a great bowler and I have a lot of admiration and respect for him, said Curtly Ambrose."

England all-rounder Ian Botham on Akram's 1992 heroics:

The one player who really stood out for me was Wasim Akram. It was in that tournament that we realised just what a special talent he was and how much trouble he was going to give us and the rest of the world in the years to come.

Pretty much every single contemporary of Wasim, the likes of Donald, Ambrose, McGrath all rates them as the toughest, most complete and most skillful bowler of all time.

Then you have got the likes of VVS, Mahela and many other cricketers around the world rating Wasim as the toughest bowlers they faced.

As I have said, in an all-time XI, I would pick Wasim as one of the first names and consider him as the greatest bowler Pakistan has ever produced. Imran, as an overall package may be superior but in an all-time XI, I will give it to Wasim first and then Imran.

Wasim. Not even a comparison to be frank.

Can you substantiate?Was not Botham in his peak close to the best allrounder and match-winner ever?Wasim has never lifted a team from the depths of despair like Botham did at his best.

 

[Harsh Thakor]

The peer reputation which Wasim had is unmatchable to anyone who has played the game. Just some of the thoughts I would like to put in:-

Over my 15 or 16 years of playing international cricket in Tests and One Day Internationals, Wasim Akram is definitely the most outstanding bowler I've ever faced.
– Former West Indies batsman Brian Lara

I have always rated Wasim as the best bowler I have ever faced. I saw him at the back end of my career and I have no regret in saying this but I am glad that was in the retirement lane at that time because I think he was very special. It just wasnÂ’t about swing or accuracy, it was about the aggression that he brought as well. He was quick as any on a given day and I just felt he had a lot offer. Like I said, IÂ’m just glad that he came at a time that I was ready to go.
– Former West Indies batsman Viv Richards

In December 2012 after Ricky Ponting announced his retirement he said that Wasim Akram and Curtly Ambrose were the toughest bowlers he had faced[74] "Akram for the exact opposite, you could get a few runs off him, but you just knew there was an unplayable ball around the corner, be it with an old ball or with a new ball," – Ricky Ponting.

Speaking on the Howie Games podcast, Kumar Sangakkara revealed Pakistan great Wasim Akram as the most difficult bowler he encountered during his 594-game international career.

"I think I've faced Wasim Akram only a few times (but he was) immensely difficult,” Sangakkara said.

"It's strange you know, when you pick your bowlers or the people think, if you take Akram on the Test wicket tally, he's nowhere near the top.

"He's 12th, but you ask any batsman around the world and his name always comes up.

"He was an absolute genius."

In an interview with South African Ali Bacher when Kallis was asked about the best fast bowlers that he faced and were named to pick between Courtney Walsh, Curtley Ambrose, Glenn McGrath, Brett Lee, Wasim and Waqar:-

“Kallis did not take a second to respond to my question and named Wasim Akram as the best and Waqar his opening partner as a very good bowler,” said Bacher. “It did not surprise me, Kallis certainly was spot on because the Ws pair was so good and fascinating to watch.”

Wasim Akram is one of my all-time favourite bowlers and any team that I would select comprising of the worldÂ’s best cricketers, Wasim Akram has to be in it. IÂ’ve seen Wasim Akram do things with a cricket ball that people like me and others cannot really do. He was such a great bowler and I have a lot of admiration and respect for him, said Curtly Ambrose."

England all-rounder Ian Botham on Akram's 1992 heroics:

The one player who really stood out for me was Wasim Akram. It was in that tournament that we realised just what a special talent he was and how much trouble he was going to give us and the rest of the world in the years to come.

Pretty much every single contemporary of Wasim, the likes of Donald, Ambrose, McGrath all rates them as the toughest, most complete and most skillful bowler of all time.

Then you have got the likes of VVS, Mahela and many other cricketers around the world rating Wasim as the toughest bowlers they faced.

As I have said, in an all-time XI, I would pick Wasim as one of the first names and consider him as the greatest bowler Pakistan has ever produced. Imran, as an overall package may be superior but in an all-time XI, I will give it to Wasim first and then Imran.

May be - that adds one more great name in the list.

I later heard Richie Benaud talking about that 1990 MCG Test and he said - “in my memory, I haven’t seen a bowler bowling so may unplayable balls in an over, spell, day, innings or Test”.

This is a comparison of a great allrounder with a great fast bowler.At his peak Botham was close to the best ali round cricketer ever.Wasim was the greatest genius as a pace bowler and thus earned accolades but that does not make him a better cricketer than Botham.

 

[Tusker]

Can you substantiate?Was not Botham in his peak close to the best allrounder and match-winner ever?Wasim has never lifted a team from the depths of despair like Botham did at his best.

There was a bowling masterclass that Wasim did for Sky Sports a few years ago (i.e more than a decade after he last played ) ... find that video and watch it and you will understand why.

 

[Harsh Thakor]

The peer reputation which Wasim had is unmatchable to anyone who has played the game. Just some of the thoughts I would like to put in:-

Over my 15 or 16 years of playing international cricket in Tests and One Day Internationals, Wasim Akram is definitely the most outstanding bowler I've ever faced.
– Former West Indies batsman Brian Lara

I have always rated Wasim as the best bowler I have ever faced. I saw him at the back end of my career and I have no regret in saying this but I am glad that was in the retirement lane at that time because I think he was very special. It just wasn’t about swing or accuracy, it was about the aggression that he brought as well. He was quick as any on a given day and I just felt he had a lot offer. Like I said, I’m just glad that he came at a time that I was ready to go.
– Former West Indies batsman Viv Richards

In December 2012 after Ricky Ponting announced his retirement he said that Wasim Akram and Curtly Ambrose were the toughest bowlers he had faced[74] "Akram for the exact opposite, you could get a few runs off him, but you just knew there was an unplayable ball around the corner, be it with an old ball or with a new ball," – Ricky Ponting.

Speaking on the Howie Games podcast, Kumar Sangakkara revealed Pakistan great Wasim Akram as the most difficult bowler he encountered during his 594-game international career.

"I think I've faced Wasim Akram only a few times (but he was) immensely difficult,” Sangakkara said.

"It's strange you know, when you pick your bowlers or the people think, if you take Akram on the Test wicket tally, he's nowhere near the top.

"He's 12th, but you ask any batsman around the world and his name always comes up.

"He was an absolute genius."

In an interview with South African Ali Bacher when Kallis was asked about the best fast bowlers that he faced and were named to pick between Courtney Walsh, Curtley Ambrose, Glenn McGrath, Brett Lee, Wasim and Waqar:-

“Kallis did not take a second to respond to my question and named Wasim Akram as the best and Waqar his opening partner as a very good bowler,” said Bacher. “It did not surprise me, Kallis certainly was spot on because the Ws pair was so good and fascinating to watch.”

Wasim Akram is one of my all-time favourite bowlers and any team that I would select comprising of the world’s best cricketers, Wasim Akram has to be in it. I’ve seen Wasim Akram do things with a cricket ball that people like me and others cannot really do. He was such a great bowler and I have a lot of admiration and respect for him, said Curtly Ambrose."

England all-rounder Ian Botham on Akram's 1992 heroics:

The one player who really stood out for me was Wasim Akram. It was in that tournament that we realised just what a special talent he was and how much trouble he was going to give us and the rest of the world in the years to come.

Pretty much every single contemporary of Wasim, the likes of Donald, Ambrose, McGrath all rates them as the toughest, most complete and most skillful bowler of all time.

Then you have got the likes of VVS, Mahela and many other cricketers around the world rating Wasim as the toughest bowlers they faced.

As I have said, in an all-time XI, I would pick Wasim as one of the first names and consider him as the greatest bowler Pakistan has ever produced. Imran, as an overall package may be superior but in an all-time XI, I will give it to Wasim first and then Imran.

Well what’s the point of being too good to get a nick?

I never said Wasim was not a great bowler. Just not as good as his fan club here claim.

In terms of pure skill or talent Wasim was the best of all paceman but his stats did not do justice to his talent.Still more lethal than anyone if not as fast or accurate as some.In my view just a shade above Imran overall as a pure bowler and the likes of Ambrose and Donald.I repeat it is not only about statistics.I would always have Wasim in my team instead of McGrath,Ambrose or Imran .

 

[PakLFC]

At the start of his career Beefy was one of the best of all time without doubt. Unfortunately he was always caught up in needless controversies that effected his performances. A player of his quality should have done much better but he started regressing rapidly at a rather early age. This was partly due to his love for liquor and late nights during Tests He also had many affairs .Waz on the other hand albeit injury prone performed far better throughout his career and was much better in bigger matches. Beefy was a better fielder and batsman nonetheless I would have Waz in my side if having to choose between the two at the peak of their careers.

 

[Harsh Thakor]

The peer reputation which Wasim had is unmatchable to anyone who has played the game. Just some of the thoughts I would like to put in:-

Over my 15 or 16 years of playing international cricket in Tests and One Day Internationals, Wasim Akram is definitely the most outstanding bowler I've ever faced.
– Former West Indies batsman Brian Lara

I have always rated Wasim as the best bowler I have ever faced. I saw him at the back end of my career and I have no regret in saying this but I am glad that was in the retirement lane at that time because I think he was very special. It just wasn’t about swing or accuracy, it was about the aggression that he brought as well. He was quick as any on a given day and I just felt he had a lot offer. Like I said, I’m just glad that he came at a time that I was ready to go.
– Former West Indies batsman Viv Richards

In December 2012 after Ricky Ponting announced his retirement he said that Wasim Akram and Curtly Ambrose were the toughest bowlers he had faced[74] "Akram for the exact opposite, you could get a few runs off him, but you just knew there was an unplayable ball around the corner, be it with an old ball or with a new ball," – Ricky Ponting.

Speaking on the Howie Games podcast, Kumar Sangakkara revealed Pakistan great Wasim Akram as the most difficult bowler he encountered during his 594-game international career.

"I think I've faced Wasim Akram only a few times (but he was) immensely difficult,” Sangakkara said.

"It's strange you know, when you pick your bowlers or the people think, if you take Akram on the Test wicket tally, he's nowhere near the top.

"He's 12th, but you ask any batsman around the world and his name always comes up.

"He was an absolute genius."

In an interview with South African Ali Bacher when Kallis was asked about the best fast bowlers that he faced and were named to pick between Courtney Walsh, Curtley Ambrose, Glenn McGrath, Brett Lee, Wasim and Waqar:-

“Kallis did not take a second to respond to my question and named Wasim Akram as the best and Waqar his opening partner as a very good bowler,” said Bacher. “It did not surprise me, Kallis certainly was spot on because the Ws pair was so good and fascinating to watch.”

Wasim Akram is one of my all-time favourite bowlers and any team that I would select comprising of the world’s best cricketers, Wasim Akram has to be in it. I’ve seen Wasim Akram do things with a cricket ball that people like me and others cannot really do. He was such a great bowler and I have a lot of admiration and respect for him, said Curtly Ambrose."

England all-rounder Ian Botham on Akram's 1992 heroics:

The one player who really stood out for me was Wasim Akram. It was in that tournament that we realised just what a special talent he was and how much trouble he was going to give us and the rest of the world in the years to come.

Pretty much every single contemporary of Wasim, the likes of Donald, Ambrose, McGrath all rates them as the toughest, most complete and most skillful bowler of all time.

Then you have got the likes of VVS, Mahela and many other cricketers around the world rating Wasim as the toughest bowlers they faced.

As I have said, in an all-time XI, I would pick Wasim as one of the first names and consider him as the greatest bowler Pakistan has ever produced. Imran, as an overall package may be superior but in an all-time XI, I will give it to Wasim first and then Imran.

At the start of his career Beefy was one of the best of all time without doubt. Unfortunately he was always caught up in needless controversies that effected his performances. A player of his quality should have done much better but he started regressing rapidly at a rather early age. This was partly due to his love for liquor and late nights during Tests He also had many affairs .Waz on the other hand albeit injury prone performed far better throughout his career and was much better in bigger matches. Beefy was a better fielder and batsman nonetheless I would have Waz in my side if having to choose between the two at the peak of their careers.

Great answer.very logical reasoning and rational.