Difficult to surpass Murali’s record: Akram

NEW DELHI - Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram Thursday called Sri Lanka spin king a “phenomenal” cricketer whose record of 800 Test wickets will be difficult to overhaul.

Murali, who played his last Test at Galle, picked a perfect eight to finish with a staggering 800 wickets as Sri Lanka beat India by 10 wickets Thursday.

Akram, who was in Sri Lanka last week, said Murali deserved the milestone.

“The moment he got his 800th wicket, the expression was clear on his face. As the Indian tail batted to save the Test match, Murali showed definite signs of frustration and fatigue. But ultimately, he got what the entire world wanted. Murali deserved to get his 800th Test wicket,” Akram was quoted by ESPN-Star as saying.

“Murali is something phenomenal. Words are not enough to explain how exceptional he is. I don’t think anyone will even come close to taking 800 wickets. The number not only highlights the man’s exceptional skills, it reflects the passion and discipline of a great sportsman.”

Akram called Murali a great ambassador for cricket and his country.

“Despite being a fierce competitor, he is a great human being and a happy person. His greatest contribution to Sri Lankan cricket has been the fact that he brought crowds to the ground because of his persona. I have never seen a bowler like him before and don’t think I will ever see another in the future as well,” he said.