DHAKA: Legendary Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has backed Bangladesh pacer Taskin Ahmed to break his long-standing record for the fastest delivery in international cricket.
Akhtar recorded the fastest ball ever during the 2003 World Cup against England, clocking 161.3kmph.
The 50-year-old is currently in Bangladesh for his maiden stint as a mentor with Dhaka Capitals in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL).
“I’ve never been part of the BPL before, but I’ve heard that it’s doing great,” Akhtar remarked.
“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,” he continued.
Notably, Taskin will play for Dhaka Capitals as a direct signing, allowing Akhtar to mentor one of Bangladesh’s promising fast bowlers.
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“I want Taskin [Ahmed] to break my speed record,” Akhtar said.
He also hailed Nahid Raha, who is one of Bangladesh’s fastest bowlers.
“I have so far seen that in Taskin. And he is looking very good, he is looking sharp, he’s looking focused. And so is Nahid Rana,” Akhtar said.
“I think if he keeps on going along with a great training session and when it comes to training properly… I’ll give him an advice at the same time, if I ever see him. I’ll tell him the trades and secrets of training.
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,” he concluded.
For the unversed, the 12th edition of the BPL will commence on December 26, with Sylhet Titans taking on Rajshahi Warriors at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.
