Wasim Akram takes dig at IPL’s duration with ‘Kids grow up’ remark, gets trolled
The Indian Premier League (IPL) has been a topic of discussion for cricket fans and pundits alike, with its duration being a subject of debate. Recently, former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram weighed in on the issue, taking a dig at the IPL’s lengthy schedule. Akram’s comment, however, did not go down well with fans, who were quick to troll him on social media.
During a recent interview, Akram said, “Bachche bade ho jate hain…woh league khatam hi nahi hoti. (Kids grow up…but that league just never ends).” The statement was seen as a veiled dig at the IPL’s duration, which typically lasts for around two months. Akram’s remark was likely intended to highlight the difference in duration between the IPL and other T20 leagues, such as the Pakistan Super League (PSL), which he referred to as the “number one” league.
However, Akram’s comment did not resonate with fans, who were quick to point out the hypocrisy in his statement. One fan commented, “Kids grow up…become big players, retire…and then still go on to play in PSL.” This comment was a tongue-in-cheek reference to the fact that many retired players continue to participate in T20 leagues, including the PSL.
Another fan wrote, “Whether…league ends or not…Pakistanis’ obsession with IPL just never ends.” This comment was a witty remark that highlighted the irony of Akram’s statement, given the significant following and interest in the IPL in Pakistan. Despite the PSL being a popular league in its own right, the IPL remains one of the most widely watched and followed T20 leagues in the world, including in Pakistan.
The trolling of Akram on social media is not surprising, given the intense rivalry and banter that exists between fans of different cricket teams and leagues. However, it does highlight the challenges faced by pundits and former players when expressing their opinions on sensitive topics. Akram’s comment, although likely intended to be lighthearted, was seen as a criticism of the IPL, which did not go down well with fans.
The debate surrounding the IPL’s duration is a complex one, with arguments both for and against the current schedule. While some argue that the lengthy schedule allows for a more comprehensive and exciting tournament, others believe that it leads to player fatigue and a decrease in overall quality.
In recent years, the IPL has expanded to include more teams and matches, which has resulted in a longer schedule. The tournament now typically lasts for around two months, with each team playing a minimum of 14 matches in the group stage. This schedule can be demanding for players, who often have to participate in multiple matches in a short span of time.
On the other hand, the PSL has a shorter schedule, with each team playing a minimum of 10 matches in the group stage. The tournament typically lasts for around a month, which is significantly shorter than the IPL. Akram’s comment suggesting that the PSL is the “number one” league may have been intended to highlight the benefits of a shorter schedule, which can lead to a more intense and exciting tournament.
In conclusion, Wasim Akram’s comment on the IPL’s duration has sparked a lively debate on social media, with fans quick to troll him for his remark. While Akram’s statement was likely intended to be lighthearted, it highlights the challenges faced by pundits and former players when expressing their opinions on sensitive topics. The debate surrounding the IPL’s duration is complex, with arguments both for and against the current schedule. Ultimately, the ideal schedule for a T20 league will depend on a variety of factors, including player welfare, fan engagement, and the overall quality of the tournament.
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