Pakistan allrounder Imad Wasim bids farewell to his international cricket career
Pakistan allrounder Imad Wasim has made the decision to retire from international cricket, marking the end of a successful career that spanned 55 One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and 66 Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is). With his retirement taking immediate effect, Imad leaves behind a legacy as a left-arm spinner and a lower-order batter. The 34-year-old last donned the Pakistan jersey in April this year during a T20I match against New Zealand in Rawalpindi. In a heartfelt post on social media, Imad expressed gratitude to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), fans, and his loved ones, while also expressing excitement for the future of Pakistan cricket.
A Journey from Under-19 Triumph to International Debut
Imad Wasim’s cricketing journey began when he played a crucial role in Pakistan’s triumph in the Under-19 World Cup in 2006. He captained the team in the subsequent edition in 2008. However, it wasn’t until 2015 that he made his international debut in a T20I against Zimbabwe in Lahore, marking the return of international cricket to Pakistan after the unfortunate attack on the Sri Lankan team. Imad’s talent and dedication earned him a spot in the T20 World Cup squad in 2016. In 2019, he had the honor of captaining Pakistan in two ODIs against Australia in Dubai.
Contributions with Bat and Ball
Throughout his career, Imad Wasim showcased his versatility as a player, making valuable contributions with both bat and ball. In ODIs, he claimed 44 wickets and scored 986 runs, while in T20Is, he took 65 wickets and scored 486 runs. His best bowling performance, remarkably, is identical in both formats – 5 for 14.
Reflections on Retirement and Future Prospects
Imad’s retirement decision came after careful consideration, as he expressed in his social media post. He acknowledged the support he received from the PCB, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to represent Pakistan. Imad also highlighted the excitement surrounding Pakistan cricket with new coaches and leadership coming in. He extended his well wishes to the team and expressed his eagerness to witness their success from the sidelines.
Gratitude for the Fans and Support System
Imad Wasim expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the passionate Pakistan cricket fans who supported him throughout his career. Their unwavering encouragement played a significant role in his journey. Additionally, he thanked his family and friends for their unwavering support, acknowledging their pivotal role in his achievements at the highest level of the game.
Conclusion:
Imad Wasim’s retirement from international cricket marks the end of an era for Pakistan cricket. With his exceptional skills as a left-arm spinner and a lower-order batter, Imad has left an indelible mark on the game. His contributions with both bat and ball have been instrumental in Pakistan’s success on the international stage. As he embarks on the next phase of his playing career, Imad’s retirement serves as a reminder of the ever-evolving nature of the game and the need for new talent to emerge. Pakistan cricket will forever cherish Imad’s dedication and wish him the best for his future endeavors.
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