Akram surprised that no IPL franchise picked Ganguly, Gayle

ISLAMABAD - Former Kolkata Knight Riders’ bowling coach Wasim Akram has expressed surprise over Indian Premier League (IPL) owners not picking former Indian captain Saurav Ganguly for the fourth edition of the event.

“Ganguly is a dear friend of mine. I thought he would be picked up by some franchise for his experience and leadership qualities. But it was a big surprise when he was totally ignored,” the Daily Times quoted Akram as telling Mobile ESPN.

He suggested that KKR never had plans to hire Ganguly.

Akram also said that he was even more surprised that there were no takers for dashing West Indian batsman Chris Gayle.

“I just can’t believe it. Gayle is a game-changer but probably never fit the scheme of things for many teams. Maybe, teams think that Gayle does not help youngsters in the side,” said Akram. (ANI)