Imad Wasim | Pakistan Cricket Player

Imad Wasim, is a Pakistani cricketer who played for Pakistan national cricket team. He is a left-handed all-rounder. . He was the member of the Pakistan team that won the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy. In August 2018, he was one of thirty-three players to be awarded a central contract for the 2018–19 season by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). In March 2019, he captained the Pakistan One Day International (ODI) team for the first time. On 24 November 2023, Imad announced his retirement from all forms of international cricket. But on 23 March 2024, he withdrew his retirement from International cricket for 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. On 24 May 2024 Imad was named in Pakistan squad for 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

Personal Information

Full Name	Syed Imad Wasim Haider
Date of Birth	December 18, 1988
Place of Birth	Swansea, Wales, United Kingdom
Nationality	Pakistani
Height	6 feet 2 inches (188 cm)
Batting Style	Left-handed
Bowling Style	Slow left-arm orthodox
Role	All-rounder

Early Life and Background

Family Background:

Imad Wasim, full name Syed Imad Wasim Haider, was born on December 18, 1988, in Swansea, Wales, United Kingdom. His family originally hails from Pakistan, and they moved back to Pakistan when Imad was still a young child. His father was an engineer, which provided the family with a stable and supportive environment.

Education:

Imad pursued his early education in Pakistan after his family returned from the UK. He attended local schools where he balanced his studies with his growing passion for cricket. Imad showed a keen interest in academics and sports from a young age.

Early Interest in Cricket:

Imad Wasim developed an interest in cricket at an early age. He was inspired by watching cricket matches with his family and idolized famous cricketers. His parents encouraged his passion for the sport, enrolling him in local cricket clubs where he began to hone his skills.

Youth Career:

Imad’s talent was evident from a young age, and he quickly rose through the ranks of youth cricket in Pakistan. He played for various age-group teams, showcasing his abilities as both a batsman and a bowler. His performances in youth cricket earned him a spot in Pakistan’s Under-19 team, where he further developed his skills and gained valuable experience on the international stage.

Domestic Career

Teams Played For:

Imad Wasim has played for several domestic teams in Pakistan and in various international T20 leagues. Some of the notable teams include:

• Karachi Kings (Pakistan Super League)
• Jamaica Tallawahs (Caribbean Premier League)
• Notts Outlaws (T20 Blast, England)
• Comilla Victorians (Bangladesh Premier League)

First-Class Debut:

Imad made his first-class debut on January 24, 2007, playing for Islamabad against Quetta in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy. He took 3 wickets in the match and showed his potential as a promising all-rounder.

List A Debut:

Imad’s List A debut came on March 6, 2006, for Islamabad against Karachi Blues in the National One Day Championship. He scored 25 runs and took 2 wickets, marking a solid start to his List A career.

Twenty20 Debut:

Imad made his Twenty20 debut on April 25, 2005, for Islamabad against Faisalabad in the National T20 Cup. He had an impressive start, taking 2 wickets for 19 runs in his four overs.

Notable Performances:

Quaid-e-Azam Trophy (2009-10):

Imad played a key role for Islamabad, scoring 325 runs and taking 23 wickets in the tournament. His all-round performance helped Islamabad reach the final.

Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2016:

Representing Jamaica Tallawahs, Imad was instrumental in the team’s title-winning campaign. He took 11 wickets in 13 matches at an economy rate of 5.96, and his economical bowling was crucial in the final, where he took 3 wickets for 21 runs.

Awards and Recognitions:

• PSL All-Rounder of the Year (2017): For his exceptional performances in the Pakistan Super League, Imad Wasim was awarded the All-Rounder of the Year title.
• PCB’s Domestic Bowler of the Year (2015): The Pakistan Cricket Board recognized Imad’s outstanding performances in domestic cricket, particularly his impactful bowling, by naming him the Domestic Bowler of the Year.
• CPL Title (2016): Winning the Caribbean Premier League with Jamaica Tallawahs was a significant achievement for Imad, highlighting his contributions in international T20 leagues.

International Career

International Debut:

Imad Wasim’s journey to international cricket began with a series of impressive performances in domestic cricket and T20 leagues.

ODI Debut:

Imad made his One Day International (ODI) debut for Pakistan on July 19, 2015, against Sri Lanka in Colombo. In this match, he showcased his all-round skills by taking 2 wickets for 28 runs in his 8 overs and scoring 15 runs, helping Pakistan secure a win.

T20I Debut:

Imad debuted in Twenty20 Internationals (T20I) on May 24, 2015, against Zimbabwe in Lahore. He had a strong debut, taking 1 wicket for 23 runs in his 4 overs and contributing to Pakistan’s victory.

Major Achievements:

First Pakistani Spinner to Take 5 Wickets in T20Is:

On September 23, 2016, Imad achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Pakistani spinner to take 5 wickets in a T20I match. He achieved this against the West Indies in Dubai, with figures of 5 wickets for 14 runs.

ICC Champions Trophy Winner (2017):

Imad was part of the Pakistan team that won the ICC Champions Trophy in 2017. His economical bowling and effective lower-order batting were crucial in Pakistan’s successful campaign.

Key Performances:

T20I Against West Indies (2016):

In the match on September 23, 2016, Imad Wasim took 5 wickets for just 14 runs, which is one of the best bowling figures by a Pakistani in T20Is. This performance helped Pakistan win the match comfortably.

ODI Series Against Sri Lanka (2015):

Imad made a significant impact in his debut series, taking crucial wickets and contributing valuable runs. His all-round performance was vital in Pakistan winning the series.

ICC Champions Trophy (2017):

Throughout the tournament, Imad played a key role with both bat and ball. His economical bowling and crucial runs in the lower order were instrumental in Pakistan’s historic win, especially in the final against India.

Records and Milestones:

• First Pakistani Spinner to Take 5 Wickets in T20Is: Imad’s record-breaking 5-wicket haul against the West Indies in 2016 set a new benchmark for Pakistani spinners in T20I cricket.
• Consistent T20I Bowler: Imad has maintained an impressive economy rate in T20Is, often keeping the run rate in check and providing crucial breakthroughs.
• All-Round Contributions: Imad’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him a valuable asset in the shorter formats of the game. His quick scoring and effective bowling have won many matches for Pakistan.

Playing Style and Skills

Batting Style and Strengths:

• Batting Style: Imad Wasim bats left-handed.
• Strengths: He is known for his powerful hitting, especially in the lower order. Imad can score quick runs and is very good at finishing games for his team. He often plays important shots that help his team win close matches.

Bowling Style and Specialties:

• Bowling Style: Imad bowls slow left-arm orthodox spin.
• Specialties: He is very accurate with his bowling, often giving away very few runs. Imad is good at bowling in the early overs and also in the middle overs, where he can slow down the scoring rate. He is also skilled at taking wickets by confusing batsmen with his clever variations.

In T20 cricket matches, Imad Wasim often begins bowling alongside Shaheen Afridi in the first spell. This means that they are the first two bowlers to deliver overs for their team. Imad Wasim is known for his spin bowling skills, while Shaheen Afridi is a fast bowler. Together, they form a strong opening bowling partnership, aiming to take early wickets and put pressure on the opposing team’s batsmen. This strategy helps set the tone for the match and gives their team a good start defensively.

Fielding Abilities:

Imad is a good fielder who can field in different positions on the ground. He has quick reflexes and is known for his ability to stop runs and take important catches. His strong throwing arm helps in getting run-outs.

Signature Moves/Deliveries:

• Signature Delivery: Imad’s most famous delivery is his quicker ball, which is bowled faster than his usual deliveries and often surprises the batsman.
• Batting Moves: When batting, one of his signature shots is the lofted drive over the infield, which he plays with great power to score boundaries.

Stats and Records

Test Matches:

• Matches Played: Imad Wasim has not yet made his debut in Test cricket.

ODI Matches:

• Matches Played: Imad Wasim has played 55 One Day Internationals (ODIs) for Pakistan.
• Runs Scored: He has scored 986 runs in ODIs.
• Batting Average: Imad maintains a batting average of 42.86.
• Centuries/Half-Centuries: He has not scored a century yet but has 5 half-centuries to his name.
• Highest Score: His highest score in ODIs is 63 not out, which he achieved against Afghanistan during the 2019 Cricket World Cup, helping Pakistan secure a crucial win in a tight match.
• Wickets Taken: Imad has taken 44 wickets in ODIs.
• Bowling Average: His bowling average in ODIs is 44.47.
• Best Bowling: His best bowling figures are 5 wickets for 14 runs, achieved against the West Indies on September 23, 2016. This performance made him the first Pakistani spinner to take a five-wicket haul in T20Is.

T20I Matches:

• Matches Played: Imad has played 73 Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) for Pakistan.
• Runs Scored: He has scored 550 runs in T20Is.
• Batting Average: His batting average in T20Is is 16.17.
• Centuries/Half-Centuries: He has not scored a century but has one half-century.
• Highest Score: His highest score in T20Is is 64 not out, which came against Australia in 2018.
• Wickets Taken: Imad has taken 70 wickets in T20Is.
• Bowling Average: His bowling average in T20Is is 22.30.
• Best Bowling: His best bowling figures in T20Is are 5 wickets for 14 runs, achieved against the West Indies on September 23, 2016. This remains one of the best bowling performances by a Pakistani in T20Is.

Domestic and Other T20 Leagues:

Imad Wasim has played for several domestic teams in Pakistan and in various international T20 leagues:

• Pakistan Super League (PSL): He plays for Karachi Kings, where he has been a crucial all-rounder. In the 2017 season, he scored 178 runs at a strike rate of 150.84 and took 10 wickets with an economy rate of 6.58, helping Karachi Kings reach the playoffs.
• Caribbean Premier League (CPL): He represented Jamaica Tallawahs in 2016, helping them win the title. Imad took 11 wickets in 13 matches at an economy rate of 5.96.
• T20 Blast (England): Imad played for Nottinghamshire (Notts Outlaws), contributing significantly with both bat and ball.

International Career Highlights:

• ICC Champions Trophy 2017: Imad Wasim was a key member of the Pakistan team that won the Champions Trophy. His economical bowling and crucial lower-order batting were instrumental in Pakistan’s triumph. In the final against India, his tight bowling helped restrict India’s scoring, contributing to Pakistan’s comprehensive victory.
• 2019 Cricket World Cup: Imad had an outstanding World Cup, scoring 162 runs in 5 innings at an average of 54.00 and a strike rate of 118.24. His highest score in the tournament was 49 not out against Afghanistan, where he guided Pakistan to a tense victory. With the ball, he took 2 wickets at an economy rate of 4.82, the best among Pakistani bowlers in the tournament.
• Awards and Recognitions: Imad was named Pakistan’s T20I Player of the Year in 2017 and finished the year at the top of the ICC T20I bowling rankings. As of April 2020, he was ranked third in the ICC ODI all-rounder rankings and seventh in the T20I bowling rankings.

Captaincy and Leadership

Captaincy Record:

Imad Wasim has led the Pakistan team in a few matches. One notable instance was during the ODI series against Australia in March 2019. He became the captain for the fourth ODI when Shoaib Malik was injured.

Leadership Style:

Imad is known for his calm and composed leadership style. He keeps a cool head under pressure and makes smart decisions on the field. His teammates respect him for his tactical knowledge and ability to stay focused during tough situations.

Notable Series Wins:

• ODI Series Against Australia (2019): Although Pakistan did not win the series, Imad’s captaincy in the fourth ODI was praised. He showed good leadership skills and kept the team motivated despite the challenges.
• Karachi Kings in Pakistan Super League (PSL): Imad has been an important leader for Karachi Kings in the PSL. Under his leadership, the team has performed well, and he has been a key player in many of their victories.

Imad Wasim’s leadership qualities make him a valuable captain. He leads by example, remains calm under pressure, and has a good understanding of the game.

Off the Field: Imad Wasim’s Personal Life

Personal Life:

• Family: Imad Wasim comes from a close-knit family. His parents have been supportive of his cricketing career from the beginning. He has siblings, but specific details about them are not widely known.
• Spouse/Partner: Imad Wasim is married to Sannia Ashfaq. They tied the knot in a private ceremony attended by family and close friends.
• Children: As of the latest available information, Imad and Sannia do not have children.

Hobbies and Interests:

Off the field, Imad enjoys spending time with his family and friends. He has a passion for cars and often indulges in activities related to automobiles. In his leisure time, he likes to unwind by listening to music and watching movies. Imad also has a keen interest in fitness and often engages in activities to maintain his physical well-being.

Philanthropy and Charity Work:

Imad is actively involved in philanthropic endeavors. He is known to contribute to various charitable causes, particularly those related to education and healthcare in Pakistan. He has supported initiatives aimed at providing education and healthcare services to underprivileged communities. Imad often participates in charity matches and fundraising events to raise awareness and funds for different social causes.

Controversies and Challenges

Major Controversies:

One notable controversy surrounding Imad Wasim occurred during a match in which he was accused of faking an injury to manipulate the game’s outcome. This incident sparked heated debates among cricket fans and experts, casting doubts on his sportsmanship and integrity.

Injuries:

Imad Wasim has experienced various injuries throughout his cricket career, with some more serious than others. One significant injury was a fracture to his little finger, which sidelined him from several matches and required a period of rehabilitation before he could return to competitive play.

Comebacks:

Following his recovery from the finger fracture, Imad Wasim made a remarkable comeback to the cricket field. Despite the challenges posed by his injury and the intense rehabilitation process, he displayed determination and resilience, ultimately returning to form and making significant contributions to his team’s success on the field. This comeback showcased his strength of character and commitment to his sport.

Legacy and Impact

Impact on the Game:

Imad Wasim, the Pakistani cricketer, has left a lasting impact on the game with his exceptional skills and versatility. His adeptness as an all-rounder, proficient in both batting and bowling, has made him a valuable asset to his team. Imad’s ability to perform under pressure and deliver crucial performances in key moments has earned him respect and admiration from fans and fellow cricketers alike. His presence on the field often adds a strategic advantage to his team, making him a formidable force in international cricket.

Inspirations and Mentorship:

Imad Wasim serves as an inspiration to aspiring cricketers, especially in Pakistan, where cricket holds a special place in the hearts of millions. His journey from humble beginnings to becoming a prominent figure in the cricketing world inspires young talents to pursue their dreams with dedication and perseverance. Additionally, Imad has been known to mentor and support emerging cricketers, offering guidance and encouragement to help them hone their skills and navigate the challenges of professional cricket.

Quotes by/from Player:

1. “I believe in hard work and dedication. These are the keys to success in cricket and in life.” – Imad Wasim
2. “Every match is an opportunity to learn and improve. I always strive to give my best and contribute to my team’s success.” – Imad Wasim
3. “Representing my country on the cricket field is the greatest honor. I take pride in wearing the green jersey and giving my all for Pakistan.” – Imad Wasim

Imad Wasim’s dedication to the game, along with his positive influence on fellow players and aspiring cricketers, ensures that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations in the world of cricket.

Media and Endorsements

Media Appearances:

Imad Wasim has made appearances on various prominent media channels, including:

1. Geo News: Imad has been featured in interviews and cricket analysis segments on Geo News, one of Pakistan’s leading news channels.
2. ARY News: Imad has also appeared on ARY News, participating in discussions about cricket and sharing insights into his career and experiences.

Endorsements:

Imad Wasim has endorsed several well-known brands, including:

1. QMobile: Imad has been associated with QMobile, a popular Pakistani smartphone brand, as a brand ambassador, promoting their products through advertising campaigns and endorsements.
2. J. (Junaid Jamshed): Imad has partnered with J., a renowned Pakistani clothing brand, endorsing their apparel collections and featuring in promotional activities.

Future Plans

Post-Retirement Plans:

After retiring from cricket, Imad Wasim intends to explore various avenues beyond the field. One of his primary aspirations is to engage in philanthropic activities, particularly focusing on initiatives aimed at supporting underprivileged communities and promoting education. Additionally, Imad plans to venture into business ventures, leveraging his experience and network in the cricketing world to establish successful ventures in different industries.

Involvement in Cricket Post-Retirement:

Despite stepping away from professional cricket, Imad Wasim plans to remain connected to the sport in various capacities. He envisions himself contributing as a mentor and coach, guiding young cricketers and sharing his insights and expertise to nurture talent. Moreover, Imad expresses interest in working in cricket administration, potentially serving in roles that facilitate the development and promotion of the sport at grassroots levels.

Conclusion

Imad Wasim’s journey in cricket has been marked by achievements, challenges, and a lasting impact on the game. From his stellar performances on the field to his engagements off it, Imad has left an indelible mark on the cricketing world. As he looks towards the future, Imad remains committed to making meaningful contributions, both in philanthropy and cricket development, ensuring that his legacy continues to inspire generations to come.