The cricketing world was left puzzled when veteran all-rounder Imad Wasim was omitted from the Pakistan team for the first T20 International against New Zealand. This decision came as a surprise particularly after Imad, along with Mohammad Amir, announced their return from retirement ahead of the T20 World Cup slated for June this year.
Both players were persuaded to come out of retirement, but despite this, Imad was not included in the playing eleven for the match. The game itself was brief, as constant rains allowed only two balls to be bowled before the match had to be abandoned. Debutants in the game included UAE-based off-spinner Usman Khan, middle-order batter and seamer Irfan Khan, and mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed.
Criticism has been pointed toward the selection process, with many former cricketers voicing their concerns. Notably, former Test player Iqbal Qasim expressed his bewilderment at the decision, candidly stating that, from his perspective, it made no sense for Imad not to play, suggesting he should have been selected over Shadab Khan.
Mohsin Khan, a former player and chief selector, also advocated for players like Imad and Amir, highlighting the necessity for them to participate extensively to shake off any rustiness from their absence from international cricket. “So much effort was made to bring them back, and now not giving them sufficient game time to find their rhythm again just doesn’t add up,” he remarked.
Background tensions may underline some of these selection decisions. It’s noted that team captain Babar Azam and Imad Wasim have a strained relationship. Reportedly, Babar moved away from the Karachi Kings team in the Pakistan Super League, which was said to be due to his relationship with Imad who later switched to Islamabad United. Additionally, former captain Mohammad Hafeez once observed that Imad’s decision to retire initially was influenced by feeling marginalized by the team management, which included Babar.
A critical view also comes from cricket analyst Omar Alavi, who believes that Babar Azam is at a crucial juncture in his career as a captain. “Babar has another opportunity to shape his legacy with the national team. For him to succeed, it’s imperative that selections are made purely based on merit and situational requirements,” Alavi stated.
Beyond personal dynamics and game strategy, Imad’s potential contribution to the team is also a subject of discussion. Being a left-arm spinner and having the capability to add depth to the batting lineup makes him a valuable asset in T20 cricket—a point another former player emphasized, noting that Imad’s inclusion would strategically benefit the team more than Shadab Khan in the lower batting order.
As Pakistan gears up for the T20 World Cup, with subsequent series against Ireland and England also in the pipeline, the debates and decisions surrounding team selections are likely to intensify. The pressure is mounting on Babar Azam to navigate through these challenges, ensuring that his leadership is aligned with the long-term success of the team.
The entire cricket fraternity will be watching closely as Pakistan continues its preparations for the T20 World Cup. How Babar Azam responds to these challenges and whether Imad Wasim regains his place in the team remain to be seen as the series progresses. The management’s strategy and team dynamics will play a crucial role in shaping Pakistan’s approach to the forthcoming pivotal matches on the international stage.