Former Pakistan Test cricketer Rashid Latif commented on Imad Wasim’s shocking decision to hang his boots from international cricket.
Imad Wasim’s decision to retire from international cricket did not go well with Rashid Latif, who stated that the all-rounder should reverse his decision.
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The former wicketkeeper said the all-rounder is Pakistan’s best spin bowler and a handy batter and also that the country will suffer in next year’s ICC T20 World Cup 2024.
“Imad Wasim should reconsider his retirement decision. He is Pakistan’s best spinner and can be very helpful in batting as well. If the team’s most effective player isn’t in the World Cup, it’s not just Imad’s loss, it’s Pakistan’s loss,” Rashid wrote.
Rashid Latif emphasized that players who wish to participate in leagues should be released from their central contract, while still remaining available for the national team.
“Mohammad Hafeez should strive to bring Imad back. If leagues need to be played, consider separation from the central contract, but keep yourself available for the Pakistan team,” he concluded by tagging Hafeez and chief selector Wahab Riaz.
For the unversed, Imad Wasim stunned the cricket fans on Friday when he announced to retire from international cricket through a social media post.
“In recent days have been doing a lot of thinking about my international career and have come to the conclusion that now is the right time for me to announce my retirement from international cricket.
“I would like to thank the PCB for all their support over the years it has truly been an honour to represent Pakistan. Each of my 121 appearances across the ODI and T201 formats was a dream come true.
— Imad Wasim (@simadwasim) November 24, 2023
Imad Wasim extended his well wishes for Pakistan cricket and also thanked his fans for their support.
“It’s an exciting time for Pakistan cricket going forwards with new coaches and leadership incoming. I wish all involved every success and look forward to watching the team excel.
“Thank you to the Pakistan fans for always supporting me 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.
“Now, [I] look forward to focussing on the next stage of my playing career away from the international stage.
Notably, Imad Wasim, who made his international debut in 2015, represented Pakistan in 66 T20Is and 55 ODIs.
He scored 1,472 runs across formats with the help of six half-centuries.
He was part of the Pakistan side that won the ICC Champions Trophy in 2017.
His last appearance for Pakistan, however, was in April this year in the home T20I series against New Zealand.