Wasim Akram was the captain of the Pakistani team when they were beaten by Bangladesh in the ICC World Cup 1999 in England. It was Bangladesh’s first-ever win over a Test-playing nation and paved way for their Test debut a year later.

However, despite playing ODI cricket since 1986 and Tests since 2000, Bangladesh has been often criticized for not moving forward in their game. They have had an odd victory here and there with Test wins over West Indies, Sri Lanka, Australia, and England. But largely have been ineffective in the longest format of the game.

Wasim Akram explains why BCCI is way ahead of PCB in producing good cricketers

They have a very good record in limited-overs formats where they reached finals of Asia Cup and have ODI series win over India. The Bangladesh cricket has produced some superstars lately and it was pointed out by Pakistani legend Wasim Akram in a chat with Tamim Iqbal, Bangla team’s ODI skipper.

“I miss coming to Bangladesh... Bangladesh have always been very close to my heart. The people... the food... and of course cricket as well,” Akram told Tamim during the live video session.

“For me it is very proud moment to see Bangladesh cricket improve immensely in last 10-12 years. World top players like yourself, Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur (Rahim), Mustafizur (Rahman)...all these guys... it’s really good to see,” Akram added.

In reply, Tamim thanked his lucky stars that he didn’t had to face a legend like him in international cricket. “We are lucky Wasim bhai. I don’t want to face you. We are very lucky that you are not playing. I am happy sitting at my home. I don’t want to face you no matter what,” Tamim said.

(IANS inputs)