Imran inspired young generation to become a fast-bowler: Aamir Sohail

A left-handed opening batsman and occasional left-arm former spin bowler, Amir Sohail believes the 1992 World Cup-winning Pakistan captain Imran Khan inspired the young generation to become a fast-bowler, saying the legendary all-rounder set high standards in the game.

“Remember that 1977 Sydney Test when Imran bowled a spell with his shirt torn and when those pictures came out, it inspired the young generation,” Aamir said on his YouTube channel.

Pakistani cricket commentator and former cricketer, Aamir — who formed a very successful opening partnership with fellow left-handed batsman Saeed Anwar in the 1990s — said in past Pakistan did not have the tradition of getting fast bowlers on regular basis or in huge numbers.

“Imran’s inspirational performances and his aura inspired the young generation to become a fast bowler and during the 1980s we use to get good fast bowlers,” he said. “When you talk about Imran’s greatness and have to define him. He knew the way to inspire the youngsters.”

Aamir said the current Prime Minister of the country hated losing and winning was everything to him.

“The high standards he set, his guidance and knowledge helped players to become better and raise their game,” he said while adding the likes of Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, Aaqib Javed, Ata-ur-Rehman were many examples whom Imran mentored.

“We have resulted in the front of us. Both Wasim and Waqar managed to pick 1,700 international wickets between them,” he said.