Wasim Akram's Hilarious County Cricket Prank
Former Pakistani cricket legend Wasim Akram recently regaled fans with a hilarious story from his early days in county cricket. He shared an amusing incident involving a prank that left him both bewildered and entertained. During the first month of his stint, Akram carried a kit bag that felt increasingly heavier. Little did he know that a big brick had been secretly placed inside by his teammate, Michael Watkinson.
In a conversation on the podcast "Stick to Cricket," Akram humorously recalled how, at just 21 years old, he was unaware of the extra weight he was lugging around. He described the cricket bags of his time as "coffins without wheels," emphasizing how players had to carry their own bags in county cricket. Unlike in Pakistan, where his mother took care of his laundry, Akram found himself struggling to manage his kit while also navigating the challenges of living independently in a foreign country.
Akram's story not only illustrates the light-hearted nature of cricket but also highlights the bonds formed among players through pranks and camaraderie. He mentioned that after a month of carrying the bag, the heavy surprise was revealed, prompting laughter among his teammates. After discovering the prank, Akram humorously retaliated by cutting Watkinson's socks, showing that the spirit of fun was mutual.
In addition to his amusing prank story, Akram also discussed a more serious topic during the podcast—his diagnosis with diabetes back in 1997. He recounted the symptoms he experienced, including weight loss and blurred vision, which led his father to suggest a blood sugar test. Reflecting on the lack of awareness about diabetes in the 90s, Akram shared how shocked he was to learn that his blood sugar level was at a staggering 450, necessitating immediate treatment.
This candid moment from Akram allows fans to see both his humorous side and the challenges he faced early in his career. As a cricket legend, he continues to inspire future generations, not just with his skills on the field but also with his relatable stories that blend humor and life lessons.
