Wasim Akram wants to see a ‘perfect send off’ for Ravi Shastri, as India face Namibia

Pakistan legend Wasim Akram, ahead of India’s clash against Namibia at the T20 World Cup, said that he wants to see a ‘perfect send off of a good friend’. The former left-arm swing bowler’s statement is in reference to Indian coach Ravi Shastri, who is about to feature in last game of his tenure at the position. 

Akram congratulated Shastri on his stint. Along with the coach, Indian skipper Virat Kohli is also set to lead the T20 side for one last time. The RCB player had announced that he will be stepping down from the post after the T20 World Cup. 

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“India has nothing much at stake in their final match against Namibia. But there are a few things to look out for. I for one want to see Virat lead for one final time in T20 #cricket. Rohit & Rahul can go really beserk. Bumrah, Shami, Ashwin & Jadeja can strike a few blows. Above all I want to see a perfect send-off for my good friend Shaz as India coach. Well done buddy on your stint #T20WorldCup,” Akram posted on his Koo handle.

Team India’s T20 World Cup campaign will come to an end against Namibia. The side does not stand a chance to make it to the semi-final of the marquee tournament. Pakistan and New Zealand are the two teams who will move forward from India’s group (Group 2). 

The Men in Blue, who have had a disappointing T20 World Cup, lost against Pakistan and New Zealand in their first two games. They did register big wins against Afghanistan and Scotland. But the Black Caps winning against the Afghans on Sunday, put India out of contention. The India-Namibia game will be the Super 12’s last game. 

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Former India captain Rahul Dravid will be taking over the coaching job from November 17, after Shastri departs. His tenure starts with India taking on New Zealand in a T20I series at home, followed by a Test series.

Under Shastri and Kohli, India lost the in the semi-final of the 50-over World Cup in 2019, the World Test Championship. 

Wasim Akram and Ravi Shastri spent a lot of time with Shastri during their days as commentators.