Wasim Akram tells Mobile ESPN that he will be available only as consultant for the Kolkata Knight Riders after meeting Shah Rukh Khan.

By Faisal Kamal

The Sultan of Swing, the Badshah of Bollywood and the Prince of Kolkata were on the same table at Mannat in Bandra on Sunday night. No, they were not talking films. They were talking cricket.

Coach selection for a private team has never been so “action-packed.” Weeks and weeks of deliberation and Knight Riders seem to be on the brink of naming their elusive coach.

Wasim Akram sounds happy after his meeting. Given his hectic schedule as a television commentator-cum-expert, the Pakistani legend may just find some time for a team that is trying to resurrect its future in the Indian Premier League.

“It was quite a positive meeting. The minute I walked in I sensed the comfort-level. I had met Shah Rukh before. Ganguly, whom I know very well and have played a lot of cricket against, was also there. So it was quite homely,” Akram said.

In spite of being pitted against established coaches like John Wright, Richard Pybus, Sandeep Patil and Praveen Amre, Akram seems to be in for a “specific” role.

“Look I am available for a consultant’s position. I told them what I could do for them. I told them that I can help their fast bowlers and chalk out a strategy for them. I can also take a lot of load off the captain’s shoulders,” Akram said.

Looks like this story is set for a happy ending!