Mohammad Akram Awan, commonly known as Mohammad Akram, is a former professional cricket player from Pakistan. Born on November 10, 1974, in Islamabad, Pakistan, Akram made a name for himself as a right-arm fast-medium bowler.
Known for his tall stature and hard-hitting pitch deliveries, Akram was a force to be reckoned with on wickets with bounce. Despite his awkward and rigid approach to the crease, he was one of the most consistent bowlers in Pakistan before embarking on a new chapter in England.
Akram relied more on seam movement rather than big swinging to trouble batsmen. He found it challenging to secure a regular place in the Test team due to the exceptional talent of bowlers like Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, Shoaib Akhtar, and Mohammad Sami. Nevertheless, Akram served as a valuable back-up option, even though his batting and fielding skills were below par.
In 1995, Akram had a brief stint in English county cricket as he joined Northants as a replacement for the West Indian legend Curtly Ambrose, who was on international duty. Little did he know that his stay in England would change the course of his life. During this time, he met and married an Anglo-Pakistani woman from Walthamstow, London.
Settling down in England, Akram continued his cricketing career and represented Essex in 2003 and Sussex in 2004 as a non-overseas player. His performances attracted attention and earned him a three-year contract with Surrey County Cricket Club. It was during this phase that Akram voiced his desire to play for his adopted country, England.
However, fate had a different plan for him. In August 2012, Akram was appointed as Pakistan’s bowling coach, shifting his focus towards mentoring and guiding the next generation of Pakistani fast bowlers. This role allowed him to give back to the country that shaped him into the cricketer he had become.
Throughout his career, Akram displayed remarkable determination and resilience. His ability to hit the pitch hard and generate movement troubled even the most accomplished batsmen. Despite the challenges he faced, Akram’s dedication to the sport never wavered.
Although Akram’s time in the limelight might have been overshadowed by his more illustrious counterparts, his contributions to cricket, both as a player and coach, should not be undermined. His knowledge and experience continue to shape the future of Pakistani bowling.
Looking back at his stats, it is evident that Mohammad Akram’s career might not have been as flashy as others, but his impact on the game cannot be overlooked. As a player, he performed admirably and, as a coach, he continues to pass on his wisdom.
Mohammad Akram has left a lasting legacy in the world of cricket, and his journey, from his early days in Pakistan to his flourishing career in England and coaching role in Pakistan, epitomizes the spirit of perseverance and dedication.
