‘Bacchey bade ho jate hain’: Star Pakistan’s cricketer faces backlash for calling PSL No.1 while criticizing IPL duration

Star Pakistan cricket star Wasim Akram, who has featured in the Indian Premier League (IPL) as both a coach and commentator, sparked controversy after criticizing the IPL's long duration

New Delhi: Star Pakistan cricket star Wasim Akram, who has featured in the Indian Premier League (IPL) as both a coach and commentator, sparked controversy after criticizing the IPL’s long duration during a promotional event for the Pakistan Super League (PSL). He lauded the PSL’s shorter format, suggesting that longer tournaments often become monotonous.

He pointed out that the PSL’s shorter 34–35 day window is more attractive to foreign players than leagues that stretch on for several months.

IPL streches over two months

The IPL which now features 10 teams, traditionally stretches over two months. The 2024 IPL lasted 65 days, whereas the 2025 season trimmed following the Pahalgam terror attack took place from March 22 to June 3.

“The best thing about the league is that it is played for only about 34-35 days, maybe a little more next year. It’s not like three months, like the other league. Bacchey bade ho jate hain, woh league khatam hi nahi hoti. Foreign players, when they come to Pakistan, prefer to be here for 35-40 days. More than that – two-and-a-half to three months – is a bit too long for everyone. Even I get bored,” Akram remarked.

Akram believes PSL has the edge over BBL

He also reflected on Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL), claiming the PSL’s competitive edge and bowling depth set it apart.

“Prime example is the BBL. They started off with two-and-a-half months. They realised after four or five years it wasn’t working. Now their duration is about 40 days. That’s it. That’s the beauty of the PSL. Of course, the talent. Everybody overseas, when I talk to them, they talk about bowling in the IPL and other leagues. They say the PSL, as far as talent is concerned, is definitely No. 1 because we have quality, not quantity,” he added.

Akram faced widespread trolling on social media, with many fans questioning his comparison and its timing, especially since he has been closely associated with the IPL for years.

At the same event, Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi also opened up about his ambitious plans, and said “My vision is to make the PSL the number one league in the world.”