Speaking on the 1 Mint podcast, Akram addressed the extraordinary attention surrounding matches between the two neighbouring nations, saying the result of a cricket game should not become a source of prolonged hostility between supporters.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cPeople have too much time. Why can\u2019t they understand? It\u2019s only a frikkin game. At the end of the day, it\u2019s just a match. Somebody has to win, somebody has to lose. And move on to the next one. But no, what happened many moons ago still lingers. Revenge and all is so 1970. It\u2019s the classic \u2018an empty mind is a devil\u2019s workshop, thought process,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Akram, one of the most celebrated fast bowlers in cricket history, also reflected on his connection with Pathan, whose emergence in international cricket drew frequent comparisons to the former Pakistan captain for his left-arm pace and similarities in their bowling actions.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The two first met during India\u2019s tour of Australia in 2004, when Pathan was still establishing himself at the international level. Akram said the young Indian had grown up watching Pakistan\u2019s great left-armers and was eager to learn about the craft of fast bowling.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cIrfan met me in 2004 on his first tour to Australia; I was commentating. He was a big fan. Grew up watching us. I gave him a few tips here and there, but he did well early on in his career. His action was similar to mine from the very beginning. But when players ask you about something, what you tell them is mostly about the mindset. Action and all is fine, because at that stage, you have reached that level where you\u2019re representing the country. Things like wrist position and how to suss out a batsman,\u201d said Akram.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The former Pakistan fast-bowling icon explained that his advice to emerging players was focused less on changing established techniques and more on developing the tactical understanding required to succeed at the highest level.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cIrfan met me in 2004 on his first tour to Australia; I was commentating. He was a big fan. Grew up watching us. I gave him a few tips here and there, but he did well early on in his career. His action was similar to mine from the very beginning. But when players ask you about something, what you tell them is mostly about the mindset. Action and all is fine, because at that stage, you have reached that level where you\u2019re representing the country. Things like wrist position and how to suss out a batsman,\u201d said Akram.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Pathan made his Test debut against Australia in 2003 and quickly became one of India\u2019s most promising all-rounders. His left-arm pace, ability to swing the new ball and resemblance in bowling style to Akram made the comparisons inevitable during the early years of his career.<\/p>\r\n\r\n