With the ODI World Cup Coming later this year, there’s a big debacle on who will be the all-rounder partner with Shadab Khan. It’s Imad Wasim and Mohammad Nawaz, who are the main contenders for this spot but who is going to make it? Let’s have Imad vs Nawaz and analyze by stats.
Imad vs Nawaz
Imad Wasim
Imad Wasim is a cricketing star who has shone brightly this season, both with the bat and the ball. Despite being dropped after a good performance in the T20 World Cup 2021, he might be making a comeback to the team soon. He’s been having a blaster of a season in PSL 8, having scored 237 runs in just 7 innings with an average of 118.50 and a strike rate of 179.54. What’s more, he’s also picked up 7 wickets at an economy rate of 8.
In a recent match against Islamabad United, the all-rounder smashed 94 runs off just 52 deliveries, helping his team reach an impressive total of 201. While his teammates let him down, he has been performing consistently throughout the season.
Moreover, he has plenty of international experience under his belt, making him a valuable asset to the team. With the ODI World Cup coming up this year, it’s worth taking a look at Imad Wasim’s record in the format. In ODI’s, the wonderful bowler with the new ball has scored 986 runs in 40 innings with an average of 42 and a strike-rate of 110. He also has 5 fifties to his name.
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Muhammad Nawaz
When it comes to the ongoing PSL 8, Muhammad Nawaz is having a tough time finding his form. Unlike his rival Imad, he has been struggling to deliver with both bat and ball, and his performance in the T20 World Cup 2022 held in Australia was nothing short of a disaster.
But it’s worth noting that the all-rounder had a wonderful previous year, where he contributed to many victories for the Green Shirts with both his batting and bowling. In fact, he has some fascinating ODI stats, despite playing fewer matches than Imad..
With the bat, the Quetta Gladiators sensation has scored 264 runs in 20 innings with a strike rate of 86. While this may not seem too impressive, it’s his bowling stats that will amaze you. In just 25 innings, he’s taken 37 wickets at an economy rate of 4.84 – a rate that’s pretty similar to Imad’s, particularly in the middle overs. He also has three 4-wicket hauls to his name, proving that he can be a real match-winner when he’s at his best.
In the Imad vs Nawaz battle, Nawaz may be struggling in the current PSL season, but his past performances show that he’s more than capable of being a key player for Pakistan. It’s all about finding form and consistency, and if he can get back to his best, he could easily give a run for his money.
Can Both Play In The Same Team?
For Pakistani cricket fans, the dream scenario would be to see both Imad Wasim and Muhammad Nawaz in the national team, adding depth and balance to the squad. Unfortunately, this may not be possible given the team’s small middle-order and the need for reliable batters. It’s a tough call to drop a batter for a bowling all-rounder, especially in crucial matches.
The other option could be to drop Shadab Khan, but that’s highly unlikely to happen as he’s been a crucial player for Pakistan in recent years. Shadab is a leg-spinner who can also contribute with the bat, making him a valuable asset in any squad.
However, there is a glimmer of hope for Imad and Nawaz. With the ODI World Cup being held in India, the pitches are expected to be spin-friendly. This means that Pakistan could potentially drop a fast bowler for a spinner, allowing them to strengthen their batting lineup.
Having both Imad and Nawaz in the squad could prove to be a wise decision, as they both have exceptional bowling records and can contribute with the bat when needed. It would give Pakistan the flexibility to adapt to different playing conditions and opponents, making them a more well-rounded team.
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Imad vs Nawaz: Who Will Selectors Pick?
Ultimately, the decision of who to include in the national team will be up to the selectors. They will have to weigh up the strengths and weaknesses of each player and consider the team’s overall strategy and objectives. One thing is for sure – the Imad vs Nawaz debate is far from over, and both players will be eager to prove their worth in the upcoming matches.
However, the battle between Imad vs Nawaz is on, as both players have amazing ODI stats. While Imad is a solid all-rounder, Nawaz is another player who could potentially compete for the same spot in the team. It’s a tough decision for the selectors, but ultimately, the player who brings more balance to the team will likely get the nod.
Regardless of who gets the spot, the competition between two will only serve to raise the overall standard of the team. With the ODI World Cup on the horizon, Pakistan will be looking to field their strongest possible team, and Imad vs Nawaz is just one of the many selection dilemmas they’ll have to navigate.
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