Ihsanullah reverses retirement decision within 24 hours

Ihsanullah. (Photo Source: FAROOQ NAEEM/AFP via Getty Images)

Young Pakistani fast bowler Ihsanullah has reversed his decision to retire from franchise cricket less than 24 hours after making the announcement. The 22-year-old, who had initially decided to step away due to frustration following his exclusion from the Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 10 draft, revealed the decision was made in an emotional state of mind.

Ihsanullah burst onto the scene during PSL 8, registering impressive performances for Multan Sultans. His tally of 22 wickets at an economy rate of 7.59 earned him a place in Pakistan’s T20I squad. However, a severe elbow injury during his debut ODI series against New Zealand, sidelined him for a long period, eventually losing his place from the national squad. The injury and its subsequent mismanagement became a controversial issue, with criticisms directed at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for inadequate medical support.

Ali Tareen, owner of the Multan Sultans, played a crucial role in supporting Ihsanullah during his rehabilitation, even providing financial aid. Despite this, Ihsanullah went unsold in the recent PSL draft, leading to his initial retirement announcement.

On January 14, Ihsanullah’s retirement announcement was because of his frustration over the lack of recognition despite his consistent performances. On January 15, he clarified that the decision was made impulsively.

“I take my decision back. No franchise picked me, and the comments of a lot of people sent me over the edge. I’m going to work hard. There are four months before the PSL. The people who didn’t select me are the same ones who will select me in the future. I have no plans to retire,” Ihsanullah said while speaking to TV channel Geo Super. 

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The mismanagement of Ihsanullah’s injury has gained significant eyeballs. An independent report mentioned the delays in diagnosis, inappropriate treatment plans, and a hurriedly planned surgery by a surgeon with insufficient expertise. The said factors have left Ihsanullah with lasting physical limitations, including the inability to fully straighten his arm.