Wasim Akram set to visit Leicestershire County Cricket Club by PCB compilation

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Ground:	Grace Road, Leicester
Player:	Wasim Akram

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DateLine: 7th June 2006

 

Wasim Akram will be visiting Grace Road later this month, ahead of Pakistan's eagerly-awaited tour opener against Leicestershire according to a media release issued by the county.

 

The legendary all-rounder will conduct a coaching session and deliver a motivational talk on the importance of health and fitness when suffering and coping with diabetes as part of promotional work with a pharmaceutical multinational.

 

Wasim will be in Leicester on Saturday June 17th offering valuable assistance and sharing his experiences of diabetes to help raise awareness.

 

Nicknamed 'King' by his many fans, he was diagnosed with type one diabetes while at the peak of his career in 1993, but by following a healthy diet and fitness programme, he has been able to lead a normal life.

 

In his capacity as a commentator and television host, he has campaigned in Pakistan and India to raise awareness of the condition.

 

Leicestershire's General Manager Sophie Walker said: "First and foremost, we considered it important to help such a worthy cause by hosting the event, but clearly the presence of Wasim Akram has many attractions due to his status within Pakistan cricket and indeed the world game.

 

"One of those will be the fact that it will assist in heightening interest in our tour match against Pakistan which follows a fortnight later."

 

She added: "Interest is already building in that match and I am sure it will gather pace now that Wasim's visit is going to raise awareness."

 

The day will begin with the former Pakistan skipper giving coaching lessons to local youngsters who have been invited to the event and who dream of becoming the next Wasim or 'Freddie' Flintoff.

 

Following the coaching session, he will be sharing his experiences by giving a motivational talk to the children entitled: "Don’t be Bowled Over By Diabetes". Wasim will talk about his experiences and provide practical advice on how to lead a full and active life whilst living with diabetes.

 

He will also highlight how good diabetes management is crucial to leading a normal life.

(Article: compiled by the PCB. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the individuals only.
Copyright © 2006 the individual writers.)