Wasim Akram confesses suffering from cocaine addiction post-retirement

Wasim Akram (Source: Twitter)

Pakistani pace legend, famously known as the Sultan of Swing Wasim Akram has made a startling revelation in his autobiography Sultan: A Memoir. Talking about his issue post-retirement, Akram revealed he was dealing with cocaine addiction.

He mentioned that the prime reason of him going that route was to match the adrenaline rush of playing cricket which he was unable to achieve after retirement. His addiction started when he was presented with a line of cocaine in England while being at a party which he was going to way more than often.

Akram, who is Pakistan's leading wicket-taker in Tests and ODI, mentioned that from basic amount it turned into a much serious number which was tough to manage after a certain point.

"I liked to indulge myself; I liked to party. 

"Worst of all, I developed a dependence on cocaine. It started innocuously enough when I was offered a line at a party in England; my use grew steadily more serious, to the point that I felt I needed it to function,"

Furthermore, he stated that his first wife Huma is the major reason why his life changed for good who helped her overcome his addiction. Her death in 2009 caused him to stray from his cravings for which he is still grateful to his late wife.

"Huma eventually found me out, discovering a packet of cocaine in my wallet . . . 'You need help.' I agreed. It was getting out of hand. I couldn't control it. 

"Huma's last selfless, unconscious act was curing me of my drug problem. That way of life was over, and I have never looked back."

Akram has been working as a commentator and coach in different stints after his retirement.

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