KARACHI, May 22: Former captain Wasim Akram acknowledged on Friday that he was honoured to have played international cricket for Pakistan. Wasim, who retired from all forms of cricket just over a year ago , was presented with a gold medal by PIA for his meritorious services for both Pakistan and the department at a special ceremony.

In a brief speech on the occasion, the legendary left-arm fast bowler said: "What I have achieved in the field of cricket it was only because of Pakistan. I am truly honoured to have represented both Pakistan and PIA as a cricketer for almost 19 years."

He offered his gratitude to the PIA management for looking after him and many other sportsmen.

Kamran Hassan, Director Marketing on behalf of PIA chairman Mr. Ahmed Saeed, announced that Wasim was being promoted to the next group.

Batting legend Hanif Mohammad paid glowing tribute to Wasim. The ex-Pakistan captain highlighted the achievements of the icon and described him as the greatest ever left-arm fast bowler to have played international cricket.

Hanif also urged the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to appoint Wasim as permanent bowling coach of the national team.

Waqar Hasan, who was one of the best batsmen in the early years of Pakistan Test cricket, spoke of Wasim's virtue as a great player.

Wasim, 38 next month, claimed a world record 502 wickets in 356 One-day Internationals and another 414 in 104 Tests. In the first-class arena, Wasim snared 1042 victims.

As a hard-hitting left-handed lower-order batsman, he made 2898 runs and hit a career-best unbeaten 257 during a Test record eighth-wicket partnership of 313 with Saqlain Mushtaq against Zimbabwe at Sheikhupura in 1996-97. Wasim's 57 sixes are a Pakistan Test record.

Among his numerous highlights were his all-round showing in the 1992 World Cup final against England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground and his four hat tricks (two each in Tests and ODIs).

Former Test captains Wasim Bari and Moin Khan, current vice-captain Yousuf Youhana, young pace bowler Umar Gul,Salahuddin Ahmed, the former Test all-rounder, former Pakistan hockey skipper Islahuddin andformer Olympian Akhtarul Islam also spoke on the occasion.