Pakistan’s Star All-Rounder Encouraged to Reconsider Retirement Ahead of T20 World Cup

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Star All-Rounder Urged to Rethink Retirement for T20 World Cup

Pakistan’s Star All-Rounder Encouraged to Reconsider Retirement Ahead of T20 World Cup

Imad Wasim, the in-form all-rounder, is being encouraged to reconsider his retirement from international cricket and return for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

Imad played a pivotal role in leading Islamabad United to their third Pakistan Super League (PSL) title on Monday. The 35-year-old all-rounder picked up a five-wicket haul, restricting Multan Sultans to 159/9, and later returned to guide the run chase home with an unbeaten 19*.

Imad has consistently made significant contributions throughout the tournament. The southpaw collected three valuable wickets against Quetta Gladiators in Eliminator 1 and produced an unbeaten 59* in Eliminator 2 against Peshawar Zalmi.

Imad Wasim in action

Such performances would be invaluable for Pakistan in the upcoming T20 World Cup in June. However, Imad remains retired from international cricket since November last year.

Pakistan Test captain and Islamabad United teammate, Shadab Khan, has reached out to Imad, hoping he will make himself available for the 20-over showcase. Shadab believes the conditions in the USA and Caribbean will suit Imad’s bowling style.

“I had a discussion with Imad when he made the decision. I didn’t want him to leave because Pakistan needs players like him. I hope he will reconsider, especially with the World Cup approaching and considering his current form and experience in the CPL (Caribbean Premier League),” Shadab said.

Imad Wasim demonstrating the carrom ball

Imad took four wickets in six matches at the 2021 T20 World Cup, with a best haul of 2/25 against Afghanistan in Dubai. However, he was overlooked for the recent tournament in Australia when selectors chose Mohammad Nawaz and Shadab as their primary spinning options.

Although Imad hasn’t played a T20I for Pakistan since his two-wicket haul against New Zealand in Rawalpindi in April last year, he hinted at a potential recall if skipper Shaheen Afridi requests his return.

“I made a name for myself while playing for Pakistan and if my country needs me, I will be available. If not, I have no issues with that,” Imad stated.

“Shaheen called me after I retired but I told him that we will talk after PSL,” he added.