Video: Imran Khan narrates how he discovered Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis and Inzamam ul-Haq
In other countries players emerge because of the system, but in Pakistan players emerge despite the system – Imran Khan
Imran Khan is a born leader. The charismatic skipper, who instilled the “Cornered Tigers” mindset into the players. With genuine abilities both with the bat and ball, Imran was the blockbuster hit of the 1980s. The heart throb of an entire generation, who just got better with age as he finished his career on a high with the 1992 Cricket World Cup.
Pakistan Cricket was at its peak when Imran was at his peak and sadly has never reached the same level of professional brilliance since. Despite there being no dearth of quality fast bowlers and batsmen, Pakistan has just not looked the same power house as they did under Imran.
Besides being known as one of the all time great captains, Imran also had a keen eye to recognize fresh talent. The veteran had the uncanny knack of picking diamonds from out of the rough. Thanks to him, we got to see the two best exponents of fast bowling, the two famous W’s – Wasim and Waqar.
Imran is also credited with discovering the lazy elegance of Inzamam-ul-Haq and fighting with the cricket board to let Inzamam be included in the 1992 World Cup squad, who the officials had already written off.
Sometimes one wonders that if the Pakistan Cricket Fans could ever thank Imran Khan enough for his numerous contributions to Pakistan’s Cricket.