Wasim Akram

Karachi: Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram has complimented the Sri Lankans for a “great” tactical move: Not playing mystery man Ajantha Mendis in the Super Four match against India.

“We were all quite surprised that day (last Thursday), but the Lankans had a plan... In fact, not exposing him then was a great tactical move,” Akram told The Telegraph.

As it turned out, Mendis reduced the Indians to a bunch of clueless batters in Sunday’s Asia Cup final. But for captain Mahela Jayawardene allowing the Indians some breathing space, by giving Mendis short spells, the 23-year-old would’ve finished with more impressive figures than six for 13.

“The more the world sees of Mendis, the more the batters will be able to pick him but, for now, he’s so special... I don’t think I’ve ever seen any bowler so gifted... He’s just amazing,” Akram added.

A truly terrific compliment from, inarguably, the finest left-arm quick of all time.