Trent Boult: “I’ve always idolised Wasim Akram and what he’s done over the years”

Image courtesy of: ESPNcricinfo

New Zealand left-arm seamer Trent Boult has revealed that he has always idolised legendary Pakistan pace bowler Wasim Akram.

Akram is arguably the best bowler Pakistan has ever produced, and Boult admitted that he considers himself fortunate to have met the Sultan of Swing a few times.

Boult has enjoyed a superb World Cup campaign so far as he has taken 17 wickets in nine matches at an average of 24.23.

In his side’s semi-final clash against India, which New Zealand won by 18 runs, Boult took two key wickets as he trapped India captain Virat Kohli lbw for one run before removing Ravindra Jadeja for 77 at a crucial point where it seemed as if India could potentially secure an incredible come-from-behind win.

“I’ve always idolised Wasim Akram and what he’s done over the years and it’s been nice to have a couple of chances to rub shoulders with him and understand how he used to do it back in the day, and it’s all still very relevant,” Boult told the International Cricket Council (ICC).

New Zealand will now either play Australia or England in the final, depending on which side triumphs in their semi-finals clash at Edgbaston on Thursday.