Most interesting IPL of all, says Akram

With no team as yet assured of a last four play-off berth, Kolkata Knight Riders mentor Wasim Akram described this IPL season as the most interesting in its eight-year history.
"Good sides are participating. We are still not sure who will qualify for the last four. It has been the most interesting IPL as far as points table is concerned," said the former Pakistan captain ahead of tomorrow's crucial contest between Knight Riders and hosts Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium here.
Akram, saying it's obvious that his team - who are the defending champions - will go to the top if they win here, sounded cautious about the opposition's abilities especially in their backyard.

"It's stating the obvious. But we are playing Mumbai Indians in their den. They are a good side and in good nick. They won five games on the trot before losing the last game. Pressure will be equally on both sides," said the former Pakistan left arm pace ace.
KKR are on 15 points, one behind leaders CSK and a win will take them past the latter on the table.
Akram was all praise for captain Gautam Gambhir and said he has been aggressive in his outlook right through.

"We don't rely on one batsman or bowler. Our captain is leading from the front and in my opinion he's one of the best captains in IPL. He goes after wickets, does not go for dot balls.

"Even in 15th or 16th over if a new batman is there, there will be a short leg and slip in place, at least for a couple of balls. He's putting pressure and makes good changes. Everyone in the team knows his role.
"Coach Trevor Bayliss is a very simple person and likes to keep it simple. Less is more in a team sport," he added.
Akram said the quality and variety in the Knight Riders' bowling unit has made his task simple.
"KKR's bowling is exceptional. My job is very easy. If you have fast bowlers like Umesh Yadav, Morne Morkel, Andre Russell, Azhar Mehmood, and if you have spinners like Piyush Chawla, Sunil Narine, Hoggy (Brad Hogg), Shakib ul Hasan, I don't go out and change their action. My job is about field set up and to prepare Plan A and Plan B against the top batsmen of the opposition.