Akram hopeful of good show by KKR in IPL-III

Former Pakistan captain and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) bowling coach Wasim Akram on Sunday said the team is in good shape and would perform well in the third season of the Indian Premiere League (IPL) beginning in March.

"KKR is in good shape and has a high morale," Akram said at Eden Gardens after a team practice session.

The Pakistani cricket great said even though the team could not perform well last year, he hopes that it will be able to live up to the expectations this time.

Stating that the team has a number of talented players Akram said, "I have worked with Manoj Tiwari and Lakshmi Ratan Shukla earlier. They are still very impressive. Everybody in the team knows his job".

When asked whether he has taught reverse swing to KKR bowlers, Akram, known as the 'Sultan of swing', said, "I have given them some tips. I hope they will be able to adopt them by March 12".

KKR will play their first IPL-III match against Deccan Chargers on March 12.

According to Akram, Sri Lankan Ajantha Mendis is a little down on confidence. "He is experienced, but his confidence needs to be boosted."

 Speaking on KKR captain Sourav Ganguly, he said, "He is a very successful captain and a great motivator. He is very committed to the game. The juniors should learn from him."

"I am happy to be able to work with him," he said.

According to the former Pakistan captain, Ishant Sharma should not be judged only from his performance in the subcontinent.

"We should not judge him only on his performance in the subcontinent," he said.