Michael Clarke concerned over Imad Wasim’s absence from Pakistan team
The was the star performer for Islamabad United in PSL 9
Former Australian captain Michael Clarke has shared his view on all-rounder Imad Wasim’s absence from the Pakistan team.
The 35-year-old was the star performer for Islamabad United, bagging three Player of the Match awards in Pakistan Super League (PSL) season nine knockout games.
Imad has retired from international cricket and has been playing in franchise leagues all across the globe.
Clarke, who was part of the PSL commentary panel, hailed Imad for his performances while also talking about the thrilling final which United won over Multan Sultans on the last ball.
“I am sweating, I can't believe it. I don't know who was winning,” he said.
"Imad is my MVP for the finals. If he is not playing for Pakistan in the T20 World Cup, it is something seriously wrong,” he added.
Last week, Imad said he is open to making a return to the national side if he is called up by the selectors.
“I made a name for myself while playing for Pakistan and if my country needs me, I will be available. If not, I have no issues with that,” Wasim told local media.
"Shaheen called me after I retired but I told him that we will talk after PSL," he added.
In November last year, Imad, who last represented Pakistan in May 2023, brought the curtain down on his international career.
Remember, United claimed their third PSL title after emerging victorious in 2016 and 2018 and have become the most successful team in the tournament's history.
The thriller was decided on the last ball when Hunain Shah came into bat with one run required off the final ball. The youngster smartly identified the gap at point and hit the ball for four.
Earlier, Sultans posted 159-9 in their 20 overs after winning the toss and opting to bat.
A 40-ball 57 by Usman Khan and 26 by captain Mohammad Rizwan led the way for Sultans.
However, Sultans lost five wickets for just 13 runs and slipped to 127-9.
Left-arm spinner Imad Wasim starred with figures of 5-23 while Naseem grabbed 3-32.
Iftikhar Ahmed brought Multan back in the game with a whirlwind 20-ball 32 not out with three sixes and as many fours, notching 31 in the last two overs.
United also lost their way as they slipped from 121-4 to 129-7 but Wasim held his nerves with the tail and scored 17-ball 19 to help them cross the finish line.
For the champions, Martin Guptill top-scored with a 32-ball 50 with three sixes and four boundaries. Azam Khan scored a 22-ball 30 with a six and four boundaries.
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