- Imad Wasim opts out of National T20 Cup 2023 to join Abu Dhabi T10 League, citing a preference for international league cricket.
- Despite conflicting reports on the NOC, Imad’s decision highlights his discontent with limited opportunities on the international stage.
- Islamabad coach Junaid Khan confirms Imad’s NOC from PCB, emphasizing Imad’s belief in a brighter future in league cricket.
Islamabad’s coach, Junaid Khan, confirmed that Pakistani all-rounder Imad Wasim has opted to skip the National T20 Cup 2023 in favor of participating in the Abu Dhabi T10 League 2023. Despite being included in the Islamabad team for the NT20 under the captaincy of Haris Rauf, Imad expressed his reluctance to engage in domestic cricket in Pakistan. The 34-year old’s decision stems from his belief that despite consistent performances, he has not been given adequate opportunities on the international stage.
Imad Wasim’s absence from the World Cup 2023 squad added to his discontent, with his last ODI appearance dating back to November 2020 and his last T20I against New Zealand in April 2023. Criticizing the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and former captain Babar Azam on television, Imad voiced his frustrations.
Although Junaid Khan asserted that the PCB had granted Imad a No Objection Certificate (NOC), conflicting reports emerged, suggesting that the PCB had not issued the NOC and desired players to prioritize the National T20 Cup. The Deccan Gladiators, Imad’s T10 franchise, indicated uncertainty, stating,
“He hasn’t got the NOC so far. Let’s see what PCB decides,” just a few days before their first match on November 28.
Junaid defended Imad’s choice, explaining that Imad perceives a more promising future in league cricket, leading to his decision to participate in the T10 League. Despite conflicting statements regarding the NOC, Imad Wasim remains resolute in pursuing his cricketing career in the league format, creating a stir in the cricketing landscape.
“Imad feels he has a better future in league cricket hence he decided to play in T10 League and PCB issued him NOC,” he said.
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