Mohammad Aamer was born two weeks after Pakistan won the 1992 World Cup. But the country’s newest pace sensation has a videotape of Pakistan’s famous triumph, and he knows what it takes to become a champion. “I watched the 1992 World Cup on tape and especially Wasim Akram’s bowling,” said 17-year old Aamer, who has modelled his action on the legendary left-arm paceman.

The latest addition to Pakistan’s pace armoury, Aamer has impressed everyone, including Akram, with his pace and swing. “I have watched him more than once and he’s impressive with over 140 kmph speed and can swing the ball both ways,” Akram said. Akram came across Aamer during a talent-spotting programme, paving way for his selection to the Pakistan Under-19 tour to England in 2007.

Growing up in a military academy in Gujjar, he could easily have become a soldier. “I was attracted by cricket and by Wasim Akram,” admits Aamer. He finally made an impressive first-class debut last year, taking 56 wickets in ten games, which earned him a call for Pakistan’s tour to Bangladesh in March, but the tour was postponed. He was then drawn into the Pakistan squad for the World T20 after Shoaib Akhtar was withdrawn due to injury. “My aim is to have success like Wasim’s in 1992,” said Aamer. “I want a fairytale success, and will do my best for it.”