Imad Wasim reverses retirement call ahead of T20 World Cup 2024

Pakistan all-rounder Imad Wasim has reconsidered his retirement decision, making himself available for the national team ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 in June this year. The 35-year-old took to social media to announce his decision, expressing gratitude to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for reposing their trust in him.

The decision comes after Wasim's stellar performance in the recently concluded Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024 season, where he played a pivotal role in Islamabad United's triumph. His impressive displays, particularly in the final and two eliminators, caught the attention of his teammate Shadab Khan, who urged him to reconsider his retirement.

Taking it to his official social media account, "I am happy to announce that pursuant to meeting PCB officials, I have reconsidered my retirement and am delighted to declare my availability for Pakistan cricket in T20i format leading up to ICC T20i World Cup 2024. I want to thank the PCB for reposing trust in me and I will give my very best to bring laurels to my country. Pakistan comes first!" he tweeted.

Also read: Imad Wasim on unretirement plans for T20 World Cup

Imad Wasim reconsiders retirement after stellar performance in PSL 2024

Wasim's decision to retire last November raised eyebrows, as he was overlooked for the ICC T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia despite being a key member of Pakistan's squad in the 2021 edition. He last represented his national side in April 2023 against New Zealand. However, his form in the PSL 2024 has reignited hopes of a potential comeback to the national team.

During the PSL, Wasim showcased his all-round capabilities, contributing with both bat and ball. In the final against Multan Sultans, he picked up a five-wicket haul, restricting the opposition to 159/9, and then played a crucial unbeaten knock of 19 runs to guide Islamabad United to victory on the last ball of the match.

Wasim's performances in the eliminators were equally impressive, as he bagged figures of 3/12 against Quetta Gladiators and scored an unbeaten 59 against Peshawar Zalmi. Overall, he finished the tournament with 126 runs and 12 wickets, cementing his status as a valuable all-rounder.

Also read: Hopefully Imad Wasim will come out of retirement for T20 World Cup 2024: Islamabad United skipper Shadab Khan

With the T20 World Cup scheduled to be played in the West Indies and the USA from June 1, Wasim's availability could provide a much-needed boost to Pakistan's squad. The left-arm spinner's experience and versatility make him a valuable asset, and his recent form suggests he could be a vital cog in Pakistan's campaign.