Irfan is determined to lead his country to World Cup glory, while also keeping the fans happy

Image courtesy of: ESPNcricinfo

Pakistan left-arm pace bowler Mohammad Irfan has announced that he wants to emulate what legendary seamer Wasim Akram did during the 1992 World Cup.

Akram led Pakistan to World Cup glory in 1992 as he took 18 wickets and was subsequently named Player of the Tournament.

Standing at seven feet tall, Irfan, who is the tallest player to have played international cricket, has also made it clear that he will continue to sign autographs and take photos with the fans.

“I know people notice me because of my height and I always try to oblige them by posing for a photograph,” Irfan said. “I will be ready to pose with fans in Australia and New Zealand but will remain focused on my job – to bowl my team to victories until we win the World Cup.

“It was big fun [taking photos]. I had no qualms as I am very down to earth and when people request a photo, wanting to compare their height against mine it becomes more fun for me.

“It (the World Cup) is a big event and every player has a desire to play, I want to do what Wasim Akram did for Pakistan in the 1992 World Cup.”

However, Irfan also revealed the downsides to being seven feet tall.

“I had quite a few problems because of my height,” he said. “It was problematic sleeping at home, whatever kit I used to bring was not fit and I didn’t get proper sized shoes. But since playing for Pakistan these problems have been sorted out.”