Pakistan all-rounder Imad Wasim announced his second retirement from international cricket on Friday. The 35-year-old has now targeted playing domestic games and franchise cricket worldwide.
Imad had called off his international career in 2023 as well, but his performance in the Pakistan Super League, where he was named player of the match in all three playoff games for Islamabad United, led to his re-entry in the T20 format for Pakistan.
He went on to represent Pakistan in the West Indies and America in the T20 World Cup 2024. But the team crashed out of the tournament after two defeats at the hands of the USA and India. His last international appearance was against Ireland in the T20 World Cup in June this year. He failed to earn his place back in the team.
Imad played 75 T20Is and 55 ODIs for Pakistan where he scored 1,540 runs and scalped 117 wickets in white-ball format. He did not appear in Test cricket for Pakistan.
“Your unwavering support, love, and passion have always been my strength,” he said on X, formerly Twitter. “From the highest moments to the lowest points, your encouragement has pushed me ever forward to give my all for our beloved Pakistan. Therefore, as I close this chapter, I look forward to continuing my journey in cricket through domestic and franchise formats and hopefully keep entertaining you all along new avenues. Thank you for everything. Pakistan.
He continued his statement saying, “However after consideration and reflection, I have taken the decision to retire from international cricket. Playing for my country at the world stage has been the biggest honor of my life and indeed every moment spent wearing that green jersey has been unforgettable,” wrote on X, formerly Twitter.