Fri Jun 13 04:20:00 UTC 2025: **Hyderabad Statue of Wasim Akram Sparks Online Laughter, Legend Reacts Positively**
**Hyderabad, Pakistan** – A recently erected statue of cricket legend Wasim Akram outside Hyderabad’s Niaz Stadium has become a viral sensation, though not for the intended reasons. Social media users have been quick to point out the statue’s less-than-perfect resemblance to the former Pakistani captain, with some suggesting it looks more like Hollywood actor Sylvester Stallone.
The statue, depicting Akram in his 1999 World Cup uniform, was installed in April but gained widespread attention this week due to online mockery. Niaz Stadium chief Shiraz Leghari acknowledged the statue’s shortcomings, stating that the artist “did his best effort, but accepts it doesn’t resemble [Akram] a hundred percent.”
Despite the online ribbing, Akram himself has responded with good humor and appreciation. In a post on X, he lauded the “effort” of the artist, stating, “Lots of talk about my sculpture being erected at Niaz Stadium, Hyderabad. Mine is definitely better than the tiger. It’s the idea that matters. Credit to the creators, full marks for the effort and thanks to everyone involved.” He also jokingly compared it to a controversial tiger statue, implying his was better.
The incident has sparked a conversation about the tradition of erecting statues of cricket icons near stadiums, a common practice in countries like Australia and India, where a statue of Sachin Tendulkar was unveiled in Mumbai last year.
Regardless of the statue’s accuracy, Akram remains a celebrated figure in Pakistani cricket. He played 104 Tests and 356 ODIs for Pakistan, amassing 414 and 502 wickets respectively. He was also the leading wicket-taker in Pakistan’s victorious 1992 World Cup campaign.
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