Pakistan cricket icon Wasim Akram has once again become the center of attention on social media, but this time it is not because of cricket. The former fast-bowling legend’s video from Hajj rituals has gone viral online, triggering mixed reactions from internet users.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest bowlers in cricket history, Wasim Akram is currently performing Hajj in Saudi Arabia. During the pilgrimage, a clip surfaced showing the former cricketer participating in the ritual of Rami al-Jamarat, where pilgrims throw pebbles at symbolic pillars representing Satan.
What caught the attention of viewers was Akram’s distinctive bowling-style motion while throwing the stones. Social media users quickly compared his actions to his famous swinging deliveries that once troubled the world’s best batsmen, leading the video to spread rapidly across multiple platforms.
While many fans found the moment humorous and nostalgic, others criticized the act and the filming of religious rituals for online content. Several users argued that Hajj should remain a deeply spiritual and private experience rather than becoming material for viral entertainment.
One social media user commented, “This is Hajj and not a fun activity,” while another wrote, “These people film everything and put it on the internet.” A third user remarked, “They consider everything to be a televised event.”
Despite the criticism, many supporters defended the cricket legend, saying the clip was being unnecessarily overanalyzed and that Akram was simply participating in the ritual naturally. Supporters also pointed out that celebrities often face heightened scrutiny online, even during personal religious moments.
Wasim Akram remains one of Pakistan’s most celebrated sports personalities. Known as the “Sultan of Swing,” he played a major role in Pakistan’s historic 1992 Cricket World Cup victory and continues to enjoy immense popularity across the cricketing world.
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