Imad Wasim announces retirement from int’l cricket

Pakistani experienced all-rounder Imad Wasim has announced his retirement from international cricket.

In his X, formerly Twitter, the 34-year-old insisted that it was the right time to close his chapter as an international cricketer, ending his over eight-year-long stint with the national side.

“In recent days I have been doing a lot of thinking about my international career and I have come to the conclusion that now it’s the right time for me to announce my retirement from international cricket.”

The all-rounder, who hasn’t played for the Green Shirts in some months, thanked the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for all its support provided to him over the years.

“It has truly been an honour to represent Pakistan. Each of my 121 appearances across the ODI and T20I formats was a dream come true,” Wasim noted.

He said currently, it’s an exciting time for Pakistan cricket going forward with new coaches and leadership incoming — referring to the major shake-up in the Pakistan camp.

“I wish all involved every success and I look forward to watching the team excel,” he said.

He also thanked the Pakistan fans for always supporting him with “such passion”.

“A final thank you to my family and friends who have been so important in helping me achieve at the highest level,” he said.

“I now look forward to focussing on the next stage of my playing career away from the international stage.”

The 34-year-old Imad made his international debut in May 2015 against Zimbabwe and went on to represent Pakistan in 55 ODIs and 66 T20Is. He took 109 wickets and scored 1,472 runs in his international career.

Imad has been a key member of the Pakistan team over the years and was part of the 2017 Champions Trophy-winning squad. He also played in the 2016 T20 World Cup, 2019 World Cup, and 2021 T20 World Cup.

In response to his resignation, Chairman PCB Management Committee Zaka Ashraf said Imad has been a valuable asset to Pakistan cricket.

“His performances, especially in white-ball cricket, have been crucial to the team's success. While we respect his decision to retire, we will miss his presence on the field.”

"On behalf of the PCB and its management committee, I extend our sincere thanks to Imad for his services to Pakistan cricket and wish him the very best in his future endeavours."