Karachi ( The COW News Digital)Former Pakistan cricket captain Wasim Akram has revealed the reasoning behind Pakistan’s decision to bat first in the 1999 Cricket World Cup final despite rain prior to the match. Speaking on Geo News’ program “Hansna Mana Hai”, Akram discussed the strategic considerations that influenced his decision as captain during one of Pakistan cricket’s most memorable campaigns.
During the interview, host Tabish Hashmi asked Akram why Pakistan chose to bat first after winning the toss, even though it had rained the previous night. Wasim Akram explained that hindsight opinions from others years later did not reflect the discussions and strategy at the time.
Akram emphasized that Pakistan’s strength during that World Cup was its bowling attack. With bowlers like himself, Waqar Younis, Shoaib Akhtar, Saqlain Mushtaq, and all-rounders such as Azhar and Abdul Razzaq, Pakistan had multiple bowling options. The team believed that even if they managed a total of 200 runs, their strong bowling lineup could defend it and challenge Australia.
The former captain also highlighted Pakistan’s strategy in earlier matches of the tournament, including a key victory against Australia, where batting first had led to success. The decision in the final, he noted, was consistent with the team’s approach throughout the World Cup.
However, Akram admitted that the final did not go as planned. Pakistan was bowled out for just 132 runs, marking the lowest total by any team in a World Cup final. Australia chased the target comfortably, reaching 133 runs in the 21st over with the loss of just two wickets. Akram described the match as his worst memory, calling it a one-sided contest. He stated that had Pakistan been closer to victory, the game might have been more competitive and memorable as part of his cricketing career.
The 1999 World Cup final remains one of the most talked-about matches in cricket history, with analysts continuing to debate the tactical decisions made that day. Wasim Akram’s reflections offer insight into the thought process of a captain relying on his team’s strengths and prior successes to make strategic calls under pressure.
Despite the loss, Pakistan’s performance throughout the tournament demonstrated their skill and resilience, and Akram’s explanation clarifies the reasoning behind what many cricket fans and experts have long questioned.
