Imad Wasim: Announces Retirement 2nd Time In His Career

Pakistan’s all-rounder Imad Wasim has surprised everyone once again with his decision to retire from international cricket for the second time in just one year. At 35 years of age, Imad’s decision marks the latest twist in what has been a somewhat turbulent career, one that has seen its fair share of highs and lows, and unexpected returns.

A History of Retirement and Return

It had first announced his retirement back in November of last year. It seemed Imad had made up his mind to withdraw himself from the international cricket. But, in Pakistan, nothing is more predictable than the unpredictable. True to it, Imad reversed the decision too, making a comeback into the national side for the ICC T20 World Cup. He was again considered for the World Cup squad as a comeback of sorts, and the fans wanted him to be the harbinger of all-round skills to lead the team to success.

The post-World Cup career of Imad has not been anything glamorous. In the post-World Cup era, Imad was constantly sidelined by the selectors and ignored for many key series. He could not find his way into regular selection, so he announced his retirement again. This time, it has come about that Imad, apparently finding himself unworthy of inclusion in Pakistan’s plans, decided to end his international career although not retiring entirely as he continues to be seen playing domestic T20 leagues.

Imad, an all-rounder in Pakistan, started his international career with the Pakistan team in 2015, with good overall performances that soon got him into the playing XI of the team. He eventually became a reliable asset of the team, both batting as well as bowling, scoring for Pakistan in limited-overs cricket. There was even some sort of consideration for Imad to be the captain of Pakistan. However, factionalism and internal team politics have always remained a problem in Pakistan cricket, and so the aspirations of Imad were hindered due to those fiascos.

International Record of Imad Wasim

The record of Imad in international cricket is remarkable. So far, he played 55 ODIs and 75 T20Is for Pakistan. In ODIs, he collected 986 runs with five half-centuries, and his batting average indicates his potential as a good middle-order player. Imad with the ball proved his worth as an all-rounder by taking 44 wickets. His T20I career has been no less impressive either, with 554 runs and 73 wickets, reflecting his value in the shortest format of the game.

Despite his significant contributions, his international career has been overshadowed by inconsistent opportunities. Following his last appearance in the T20 World Cup, Imad has struggled to find a place in the national team, a reality that ultimately led to his decision to retire for a second time.

Looking Ahead: Imad Wasim’s Future in T20 Leagues

Although Imad’s international cricketing career seems to be coming to an end, he still remains a quality asset for the T20 leagues around the world. With his sharp spin bowling and steady batting, he will continue to remain in demand for various domestic leagues. This is not the retirement of Imad Wasim from cricket. Instead, it is a transfer in focus onto the shorter format of the sport and domestic tournaments, with which he may be even more successful.

Imad Wasim’s career is quite an achievement, considering it is marred with ups and downs but still so resilient and adaptive. From an all-rounder with promise to a player whose career was impacted by internal politics, his story reflects the unpredictable nature of Pakistani cricket. Whether Imad makes his way back into international cricket or not, his second retirement is a reminder of the challenges and complexities of representing a team as dynamic as Pakistan.

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