Gautam Gambhir leads from the front: Wasim Akram

CHENNAI: Kolkata Knight Riders, after a slow start in IPL 7, have gained momentum. As things stand at the moment, the former IPL champions have 12 points in their kitty and are in the running for a last-four berth.
Team mentor Wasim Akram, in an interaction with TOI on Saturday, talked on KKR's resurgence in the tournament and why skipper Gautam Gambhir remains a vital cog in the team.
Excerpts:
KKR seem to have found their mojo as the tournament reaches its business end. What according to you has worked for the team?
It was a new team, and a new combination of players. At times, it does take time for things to come together. The team is filled with talent and it was just a matter of time before things started to click.
How do you view Gautam Gambhir's captaincy in the season?
Gautam is an exceptional leader and his results are there for all to see. The way he has come back to form after the first few disappointments says a lot about his mental strength. He is someone who leads from the front.
Does training a bunch of bowlers such as Sunil Narine, Morne Morkel and Umesh Yadav become easier since they know what is expected of them?
Yes, definitely. These guys have played cricket at the highest level, and have a lot of experience. Even with the likes of (Vinay) Kumar, (Piyush) Chawla and Shakib -it is all about helping them to approach a game from the psychological perspective.
Who according to you has been the find of the season for KKR?
I reckon the find of the season for us has been Suryakumar Yadav. The way he batted in the first few matches has been very impressive, and he is also an exceptional fielder.
What according to you separates KKR from the rest of the teams?
Without doubt, our captain! I think Gautam is a captain who inspires his team and makes the difference. His return to form has also very crucial.
Do you feel Pakistan players like Shahid Afridi and Saeed Ajmal would have made the IPL even more interesting?
Definitely. The Pakistan players have a lot to offer. People in Pakistan love to watch the IPL, and the craze there would have been even more if the players were allowed to play. I know that there is a lot of support for KKR in Pakistan as I am the only Pakistani involved with the IPL. I feel politics and sports should not be mixed.
With your success at KKR, will we see Akram being part of the Pakistan national team in a coaching/mentoring capacity in the near future?
I am busy till 2015 with my other commitments. I have always offered support and advice to anyone who has approached me. This will always be the case as I am willing to guide any upcoming cricketer who seeks my help.