'Begano ki Shadi Mein Abdullah Deewana': Wasim Akram on comparison with Jasprit Bumrah

Wasim Akram on comparison with Jasprit Bumrah (BCCI/AFP Photos)

Pakistan legend Wasim Akram has weighed in on recent comparisons with India’s premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah. Widely regarded as one of the finest exponents of swing, Akram built a remarkable career by consistently outsmarting batters with both new and old ball. Bumrah has lately emerged as one of the best all-format bowler, having repeatedly delivered match-winning performances against strong opponents.

Legends from other eras are frequently compared by fans, experts, and broadcasters; yet, considering how much the game and its circumstances have changed over time, these comparisons might be unjust. However, because they generate attention and make the major news, these arguments continue.

Praising the Indian pacer, Akram addressed the growing comparisons between him and Bumrah. He emphasised that it is unrealistic to compare players from the 1990s to those of today.

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“Jasprit Bumrah is a wonderful bowler. He has an odd action, has pace, and credit to the Indian cricket board for the way they manage him and their mindset. Comparisons between the 90s and now are impossible. He is right-handed and I am a left-armer. We keep social media debates — Begano ki Shadi Mein Abdullah Deewana. Neither I care nor he cares. They are fighting among themselves. He is a modern-day great. I was in my era. I did my job. He is a very impressive bowler, I must say,” Akram noted while speaking on GEO TV’s Haarna Mana Hai show.

Bumrah will spearhead the Indian attack in the UAE at the Asia Cup 2025. The selectors have prioritised managing his workload to keep him injury free and fresh for major tournaments and important bilateral series, which is why he hasn't played a single T20I since the World T20 last year, which India won.