Imad Wasim. (Source – Getty Images)
The whole world is waiting for an update on Pakistan’s veteran all-rounder Imad Wasim’s availability for the marquee clash against India in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024 on Sunday, June 9. Concerns over a suspected rib injury had cast doubt on Wasim’s availability, but the 35-year-old has passed the fitness test, making himself fit to be included in the blockbuster encounter on June 09 in New York.
Wasim’s injury woes surfaced during Pakistan’s recent T20I series against England, forcing him to miss the final match. The allrounder was sidelined for Pakistan’s opening World Cup match against the USA, which they lost in a nail-biting Super Over finish. The reports of Wasim missing the crucial India clash left Pakistani fans anxious.
In the middle of all this, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) released footage of Wasim bowling in the nets, raising hopes of his comeback. However, uncertainty stayed until the Pakistan head coach, Gary Kirsten, himself confirmed Wasim’s availability during a pre-match press conference in New York.
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Wasim had been nursing injury amid coming out of retirement for T20 World Cup
Imad Wasim‘s return to international cricket has been nothing short of remarkable. After coming back from his retirement earlier this year, the spin-bowling all-rounder has been instrumental in the team’s success, contributing with crucial wickets against top teams like New Zealand, Ireland, and England. In 72 T20Is, Wasim has hit 535 runs and bagged 70 wickets.
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Furthermore, his stellar performances for Islamabad United in the PSL 2024 show his importance to the Pakistan setup. With his wealth of experience and all-round abilities, Wasim’s presence in the playing XI against the Men in Blue could prove to be a game-changer for the Men in Green.