Wasim Akram’s Special Appearance in Manchester
Legendary Pakistan fast bowler Wasim Akram made a notable appearance at Old Trafford, Manchester, during Day 3 of the fourth Test match between India and England on July 25, 2025. Akram was honored with the traditional task of ringing the iconic five-minute bell to signal the start of play—a cherished custom at English cricket grounds.
The Five-Minute Bell Ceremony
- About the Tradition: The five-minute bell is rung by a prominent personality five minutes before the start of play to alert players and fans that cricket is about to resume. It is considered a mark of honor in England’s cricket culture.
- Akram’s Role: Akram rang the bell before the start of Day 3. His presence was especially significant, as it is rare for a prominent Pakistan cricket figure to participate in a formal ceremony at an India match, particularly given recent diplomatic strains.
- Public Reaction: News and social media were abuzz over the symbolic gesture. Akram’s attendance at an India match, and the involvement in a long-standing English tradition, was widely appreciated by fans and respected by the cricket community for its spirit of sportsmanship.
Context and Relevance
- Akram’s presence comes amid tense times in subcontinental cricket relations, making his gesture an emblem of cricketing goodwill and mutual respect on an international stage.
- Previous days of the Test saw legends like Farokh Engineer, Clive Lloyd, and Neil Fairbrother perform the bell-ringing, further underlining the tradition’s importance.
Quick Facts: Wasim Akram
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Test Debut | 1985 vs New Zealand |
| Tests Played | 104 |
| Test Wickets | 414 |
| ODI Debut | 1984 vs New Zealand |
| ODI Wickets | 502 |
Akram’s legacy as one of the greatest bowlers in world cricket made his role in the ceremony a fitting tribute to the spirit of the game
