Watch: ‘Wasim Akram is a Banker’ as Pakistani great tells rib-tickling Bay 13 story
Recently, legendary pacer of Pakistan cricket team Wasim Akram shared a rib-tickling story during a radio commentary, recounting a memorable encounter with the spirited Aussie crowd at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground.
The story unfolds during Wasim Akram's early days as a young and fiery pacer touring Australia. Fielding in front of the infamous Bay 13, a section renowned for rowdy spectators and their lively antics, Akram found himself amid some unique Aussie banter. Bay 13 was more than just a seating area; it was a cricketing cultural phenomenon known for Mexican waves, beach ball throwing, and, occasionally, disorderly conduct directed at opposition players.
After a stellar performance where Akram secured a five-wicket haul, the Bay 13 crowd, known for its exuberance, began chanting “W**ker” in good-natured jest. However, lost in translation due to his still-developing Australian accent, Akram thought they were praising him. Because of the PG-13 language, Wasim Akram said in the commentary box that they were calling him ‘Wasim is a banker.’
Watch the video here.
Amused and unaware of the actual intention of the crowd, Akram shared his happiness with his captain, the legendary Imran Khan. It was then that the truth dawned on him. Khan, with a chuckle, revealed the real meaning behind the chant. The revelation led to a burst of laughter, both on and off the field.