The modern cricketing landscape saw the rise of T20 leagues, including the likes of the Indian Premier League (IPL) and International League T20 (ILT20).
With the emergence of domestic T20 leagues, players are now prioritizing franchise cricket over international commitment.
Former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar recognizes that these leagues provide financial stability to the players.
Akhtar, who serves as the brand ambassador for the ILT20, also observed that most audiences are interested in the T20 format these days.
Akhtar told Hindustan Times: “The interest of this generation has been reduced to one or two hours.”
“As I said, the priorities have changed, but I’m glad that cricket is growing.”
“I want this game to be global rather than a couple of regions.”
However, the Pakistan pacer said he feels relieved that he is not playing in this era.
“If I was still playing? Thank god I’m not playing in this era!”
“The way the batters insult bowlers these days, I wouldn’t have tolerated that.”
“Having said that, it would’ve been difficult. I used to get warm-up in four overs.”
“In a season, I used to bowl around 800-900 overs. I would’ve played around 20 leagues in a season.”
Akhtar became legendary for setting a record of 161kph delivery in 2002.
No bowler has ever touched or broken Akhtar’s record.
