Legend in the spotlight
Known as the “Sultan of Swing” for his masterful bowling technique, all-time Pakistan cricket great Wasim Akram has been accused of a different and illegal type of spin.
promoting an iGaming platform
According to Pakistan news agencies, a complaint has been filed with the country’s federal National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) against Akram for promoting an iGaming platform.
Social media user Syed Saad took to X with a signed, high resolution image of Akram appearing to promote Asia-based parent BJ88’s Indian iGaming site Baji:
According to the complaint filed in Lahore, Akram allegedly inked an iGaming brand ambassador deal with his likeness adorning social media promotions that urge people to “play like a champion, win like a king.”
Illegal in Pakistan
According to reports, the complaint accuses Akram of sharing a clip on his own social media account encouraging people to sign up to Baji and “rake in dough.”
The complainant has urged the NCCIA to prosecute the 59-year-old under the Electronic Crimes Act of 2016 for allegedly endorsing betting in Pakistan.
agency will “take action” against Akram
Reports cited Indian news agency PTI quoting an NCCIA official as stating the agency will “take action” against Akram “if the allegations are found true”.
Gambling, and any promotion of the pastime, is illegal in Pakistan.
Wider industry under scrutiny
As of Wednesday, any response from the legendary fast bowler was not forthcoming. The thrusting of Akram into the public spotlight comes amid rising scrutiny of celebrities like the ex-cricketer, and influencers who promote gambling platforms in Pakistan.
Saad-ur-Rehman, a YouTuber and TikTok star going by the name Ducky Bhai, was arrested in Pakistan over the weekend for allegedly promoting Baji.
