SAD NEWS FOR PAKISTAN!!! In a big loss for the Green Shirts, all-rounder Imad Wasim will miss the T20 World Cup’s first match against the United States of America (USA) on June 6.
Captain Babar Azam confirmed Imad’s absence from the first T20, saying: “Imad Wasim is suffering from a side strain, which means he won’t be able to play in our opening match.”
The 35-year-old recently suffered a side injury. But still depending on his condition, he may be able to participate in the remaining World Cup matches.
Pakistan will play their opening World Cup match against the US tomorrow. The American squad began their campaign on a strong note, after beating Canada in their first T20 World Cup match.
Imad’s Availability For the Next Matches
Imad Wasim is Pakistan’s star left-handed, all-rounder. He has been ruled out of opening their match at Dallas’ Grand Prairie Stadium due to to a side strain. Pakistan Cricket Board said on Wednesday.
“Imad Wasim will not be available for selection for Thursday’s match as he has been advised rest by the PCB Medical Team,” the PCB stated.
Notably, Imad Wasim had soreness in his right rib cage. He felt this injury while batting in the nets before Pakistan’s fourth and final T20I in a series against England in London last month. Remember, Imad also did not play in the fourth T20I against England on May 30.
Pakistan appears to have adopted a conservative approach. They have also indicated that the left-arm spinner will most likely be ready for Pakistan’s big-ticket match against India in New York on June 9. Yeah, it can be their strategy!
Imad Wasim’s Career and Recent Performances
Wasim debuted in T20Is in 2009 and played for Pakistan in the 2016 ICC World Twenty20. He contributed to Pakistan’s win in the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy.
In March 2019, he represented the Pakistan ODI team for the first time. Well, Wasim announced his retirement from international cricket in November 2023. It was a big move in his career! But he changed his decision in March 2024 to compete in the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
The left-arm spinner, who last participated in the T20 World Cup in 2021, has picked up six MASSIVE wickets for Pakistan. He repeated this in as many matches since returning to the senior national side in April. Due to his spinning specialty, he’s known as one of the most famous bowlers in Pakistan.
Recently, Imad caught the attention of top national team selectors after his match-winning exploits in the Pakistan Super League. The 35-year-old claimed five big wickets in the PSL 2024 final. It helped Islamabad United to win the PSL trophy.
Pakistan’s roster has plenty of spin bowling options, including leg-spinner Shadab Khan and off-spinner Abrar Ahmed. Notably, Mohammad Amir, a member of the 2009 T20 World Cup-winning side, is also in contention after calling off his retirement in the run-up to the tournament.
Pakistan has been placed in Group A, alongside India, the United States, Ireland, and Canada.
Also Read: Rohit Sharma’s Crucial Role in Leading Team India at the T20 World Cup
Pakistan Squad for T20 World Cup 2024
Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Babar Azam (captain), Mohammad Amir. Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Iftikhar Ahmed, Shadab Khan. Imad Wasim, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Saim Ayub, Mohammad Rizwan, Naseem Shah. Shaheen Shah Afridi and Usman Khan.
About the Author
Zartash Zulfiqar is a passionate cricket writer whose love for cricket shines through in every word. From match analyses to player profiles, she delivers insightful commentary that resonates with fans worldwide. Stay tuned for the latest from the world of cricket, brought to you by Zartash.
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