As the Abu Dhabi T10 League 2023 approaches, the cricketing community remains in suspense regarding the participation of Pakistani all-rounder Imad Wasim. The reason? Imad has yet to receive a crucial no-objection certificate (NOC) from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), and time is running out with just a few days left until the league kicks off on November 28th. The question leaving the fans in wonder is if the all-rounder will play Abu Dhabi T10 League or National T20 Cup.
The delay in issuing the NOC is linked to PCB Chairman Zaka Ashraf’s absence, who was in India for the World Cup 2023. The player’s fate hangs in the balance, with fans eagerly anticipating whether he will grace the Abu Dhabi T10 League or National T20 Cup.
Notably, two other players including veteran Shoaib Malik and Mohammad Haris have shifted their center toward national domestic tournament over the T10 league.
Imad’s uncertain choice: Abu Dhabi T10 League or National T20 Cup?
Adding a layer of complexity to the situation is Imad’s recent statement on television, where he expressed reluctance to play domestic cricket without a guarantee of national squad consideration. He reminded viewers of his past achievements, stating,
“When I was playing for Pakistan, I was the world no. 2 all-rounder in rankings, everyone should know this, and then I was dropped [from the squad] without any reason.”
Imad’s frustration echoes the sentiment that despite his prior domestic performances, selection into the national squad remains uncertain.
The all-rounder last graced the T20 International stage against New Zealand at home in April 2023, while his last One Day International appearance dates back to November 2020 against Zimbabwe. His absence from the World Cup 2023 squads raised eyebrows, with divided opinions among fans. Some support the decision, acknowledging the need for a fresh approach, while others criticize Imad for his recent controversial remarks targeting ex-captain Babar Azam and airing grievances against the PCB.
Imad’s recent cricket outing in the Caribbean Premier League for the Jamaica Tallawahs saw him scoring 43 runs off 33 balls in the qualifier 2, albeit ending in a losing cause. As cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the resolution of his NOC conundrum, Imad’s cricketing statistics further underline his prowess. In ODIs, he has amassed 986 runs at an impressive average of 42.86, with notable contributions in T20Is, accumulating 486 runs and showcasing a striking strike rate of 131.70.
It is pertinent to mention that the 34-year old was set to play for Deccan Gladiators in the forthcoming T10 season. The franchise itself is unsure of his participation as the statement reads,
“He hasn’t got the NOC so far. Let’s see what PCB decides,” Gladiators’ spokesperson told GeoSuper.tv
With a career marked by both batting and bowling excellence, the player who once used to be perfect with the new ball is in a dilemma which encapsulates the complexities of cricketing politics. As the clock ticks down to the Abu Dhabi T10 League, fans remain on the edge of their seats, wondering whether Imad Wasim will don the national colours or bring his talents to the T10 arena. The cricketing world eagerly anticipates the resolution of this gripping chapter in his career.
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