Former Pakistan cricketer Wasim Akram recalls making special request to Shah Rukh Khan for tired KKR players: 'He arranged for a Boeing in an hour'

Former Pakistan cricketer Wasim Akram struggled with drug addiction during his career. After overcoming it, he joined Kolkata Knight Riders as a bowling coach, a team co-owned by Shah Rukh Khan. In a past interview, Wasim shared how amazing Shah Rukh was as a team owner. He recalled a time when Shah Rukh arranged a private plane for the team at the last minute. Shah Rukh is often seen at KKR matches, passionately cheering for his team from the stands.

Shah Rukh Khan's Swift Gesture: A Private Plane for the Team
In an interview with VU Sports, Wasim recalled an incident from the 2012 IPL season. During a knockout match in Kolkata, Wasim approached Shah Rukh Khan with a request. He expressed concern that the team would be exhausted by the time they arrived, as they would be reaching the day before the match. Wasim suggested that a private plane could be arranged to make the journey more comfortable for the players. Shah Rukh, without hesitation, assured him that it wouldn’t be a problem. Within an hour, a Boeing was arranged for the entire team.



Wasim Akram’s Reflection on His KKR Role and Rehab Journey
Looking back on how important the KKR opportunity was for him at that stage of his life, Wasim Akram opened up about his time in rehab in his autobiography. He recalled that, unlike the caring environments often shown in movies, the rehab facility in Lahore was harsh — a simple building with five cells, a meeting room, and a kitchen. After completing his rehab, Wasim focused on staying calm and grounded. It was around this time that Shah Rukh Khan offered him his first major coaching role as the bowling coach for Kolkata Knight Riders.



Gautam Gambhir’s Experience with Shah Rukh Khan at KKR
In a previous interview, former cricketer Gautam Gambhir shared his experience as part of the KKR coaching staff. He highlighted that Shah Rukh Khan never interfered with the team’s strategy. Gambhir recalled their first meeting in 2011, where Shah Rukh told him, “I don’t like anyone telling me how to act, and I’m sure you wouldn’t appreciate someone telling you how to play cricket.” Gambhir agreed, and that was the extent of their discussion on the matter. Over the following 20 days, Shah Rukh never asked him about the team lineup or the match strategy, emphasizing his hands-off approach.