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 years, with many former cricketers and experts weighing in on its format, duration, and overall impact on the game. Recently, former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram joined the conversation, taking a subtle 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 was asked about his thoughts on the IPL and its duration. He responded by saying, “Bachche bade ho jate hain…woh league khatam hi nahi hoti. (Kids grow up…but that league just never ends).” The comment was seen as a veiled criticism of the IPL’s lengthy schedule, which typically spans over two months. Akram’s remark was likely intended to highlight the difference between the IPL and other T20 leagues, such as the Pakistan Super League (PSL), which has a shorter duration.
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 clear reference to the fact that many retired players, including some from Pakistan, continue to participate in the PSL, despite their advanced age. Another fan wrote, “Whether…league ends or not…Pakistanis’ obsession with IPL just never ends.” This comment was a tongue-in-cheek remark, suggesting that despite Akram’s criticism, many Pakistanis remain avid fans of the IPL.
The trolling of Akram on social media highlights the complexities of the cricketing world, where loyalties and opinions are often divided. While Akram may have been trying to promote the PSL as a superior alternative to the IPL, his comment ultimately backfired, with fans calling out his perceived hypocrisy. The incident also underscores the intense rivalry between India and Pakistan, both on and off the field.
The IPL, which was established in 2008, has grown into one of the most popular and lucrative T20 leagues in the world. The tournament features many of the world’s top cricketers, including players from India, Australia, England, and other countries. The league’s duration, however, has been a topic of debate, with some arguing that it is too long and others claiming that it is necessary to accommodate the large number of teams and matches.
In contrast, the PSL, which was launched in 2016, has a shorter duration, typically lasting around a month. The league features six teams, including the Islamabad United, Karachi Kings, and Lahore Qalandars, among others. While the PSL has gained popularity in recent years, it still lags behind the IPL in terms of viewership and revenue.
Akram’s comment about the IPL’s duration may have been intended to promote the PSL as a more compact and exciting alternative. However, his remark ultimately had the opposite effect, with fans accusing him of being biased and hypocritical. The incident highlights the challenges of promoting a particular league or format, especially in a sport as complex and nuanced as cricket.
In conclusion, Wasim Akram’s comment about the IPL’s duration may have been intended as a lighthearted joke, but it ultimately backfired, with fans trolling him on social media. The incident highlights the complexities of the cricketing world, where loyalties and opinions are often divided. While the IPL and PSL may have their differences, both leagues have their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, the debate over the IPL’s duration and format will continue, with fans and experts weighing in on the pros and cons of each approach.
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