Wasim Akram compares Abhishek Sharma to Boom Boom Shahid Afridi, sees a future star in the 'good looking' left-hander

Pakistan's cricket legend Wasim Akram has compared India's young batter Abhishek Sharma to former Pakistani all-rounder Shahid Afridi. Former Pakistan bowling legend highlighted Abhishek's aggressive batting style, recalling Afridi's then-fastest ODI century against Sri Lanka in 1996. "The kind of talent that he has, I believe he is also a very good fielder. What a player and what an innings. A 37-ball hundred. I had heard of Boom boom Afridi and now this," Akram said.

Wasim Akram's Conversation With Abhishek Goes Viral

A short video featuring Akram and Abhishek gained attention after the India vs Pakistan Champions Trophy 2025 Group A match at the Dubai International Stadium. In the clip, Akram was seen congratulating Abhishek on his recent century against England at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

"Amazing innings. I saw that innings. Keep it up. This is the start… Keep your head down and keep performing. All the best," Akram told Abhishek in the video.

Akram Reveals How He Met Abhishek

Days later, Akram shared details about their meeting. Speaking on a TV show 'Dressing Room,' Akram admitted he did not immediately recognise Abhishek when the young cricketer approached him in Dubai.

"Look, I met him in Dubai. I was in the DP World Box. I didn't recognise him first. This young boy came up to me and said 'I am Abhishek Sharma'. I said wahi 'Abhishek jisne maar maar k England ka dumba banaya'," Akram said.

Abhishek's Rising T20I Career

Abhishek's 135-run knock off 54 balls against England set a new record, surpassing Shubman Gill for the highest individual T20I score by an Indian. His innings included 13 sixes.

In his 17-match T20I career so far, the Punjab cricketer has scored 535 runs at a strike rate of 193.84, with two centuries and two half-centuries to his name.

Akram concluded his praise by saying, "I have seen his innings, and I think he is an excellent hard-hitting batsman. He just needs to keep focusing on his game."