Wasim Akram’s Tough Questions to PCB: ‘Why Can’t PSL Produce Batting Stars Like IPL?’

Lahore: Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram has raised pointed questions about the country’s cricket system, using young Indian batting sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi as an example. As the Pakistan Super League completes a decade, Akram questioned why the tournament has produced several promising bowlers but has struggled to develop a young Pakistani batter capable of becoming a long-term international star.

‘PSL has produced bowlers, but where are the batters?’
Speaking to the media in Lahore, Akram acknowledged the PSL’s contribution to Pakistan cricket, particularly in the bowling department. However, he questioned the league’s record when it comes to producing batting talent. According to Akram, despite the PSL completing 10 years, Pakistan has yet to see a batter emerge from the tournament who can establish himself as a reliable, long-term international player.

Vaibhav Suryavanshi becomes Akram’s example
To underline his point, Akram referred to 15-year-old Indian batter Vaibhav Suryavanshi, popularly known as ‘Baby Boss’. Suryavanshi has attracted considerable attention with his fearless and aggressive batting despite his young age. His ability to take on experienced bowlers has made him one of the most talked-about young batting prospects in Indian cricket. Akram argued that Pakistan needs to identify and nurture players with similar potential at an early age rather than waiting until they are ready for international cricket.

Akram gets Vaibhav’s age wrong
There was, however, a minor slip during Akram’s comments. He referred to Suryavanshi as 14 years old, although the young batter is currently 15. The age-related error did not change the larger point Akram was making: Pakistan needs a stronger system for identifying talented young batters and preparing them for the highest level.

‘PSL alone cannot develop Pakistan cricket’
Akram also stressed that the PSL cannot be expected to solve all of Pakistan’s talent-development problems. He argued that club cricket needs to be strengthened, pointing out that a significant number of players begin their cricketing journeys at the grassroots level. For Pakistan to build a stronger pipeline of batting talent—and particularly improve in red-ball cricket—Akram believes the domestic and club structure must receive greater investment.

Akram’s big proposal for club cricket
The former Pakistan captain suggested that the PSL should invest PKR 100 million each in club cricket in Karachi and Lahore. His argument is straightforward: if Pakistan wants to produce its next generation of international stars, investment cannot stop at the professional league level. The PSL may have successfully unearthed bowlers over the past decade, but Akram’s question now is clear: where are Pakistan’s next generation of batting superstars?