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'Surprised To Hear About Your Retirement': Rizwan's Message For Imad Wasim 

image-lpf660qmMohammad Rizwan and Imad Wasim (Twitter)

Mohammad Rizwan expressed his shock and disbelief over the premature retirement of Imad Wasim from international cricket as the veteran spin allrounder called it quits from playing for Pakistan.

The experienced wicketkeeper-batter took to Twitter to express his surprise at the scenario, insisting Imad still had much to offer in limited-overs cricket to the Asian giants. 

"Surprised to hear about your retirement, @simadwasim, my brother. I firmly believe you still have many years left to excel in international cricket for Pakistan," Rizwan wrote in his heartfelt tweet posted on Sunday.

In an emotional statement issued on his social media handles, Imad confirmed his decision to relinquish his international commitments after not being picked across formats since his previous assignment for Pakistan during April's T20I series versus New Zealand. 

Rizwan 'Surprised' Over Imad Wasim's Decision To Quit 

"In recent days I have been doing a lot of thinking about my international career and I have come to the conclusion that now is the right time for me to announce my retirement from international cricket," Imad had written. "I would like to thank the PCB for all their support over the years - it has truly been an honour to represent Pakistan."

"Each of my 121 appearances across the ODI and T20I formats was a dream come true. It's an exciting time for Pakistan cricket going forwards with new coaches and leadership incoming. I wish all involved every success and I look forward to watching the team excel," he added. 

Speculations of Imad deciding to part ways with Pakistan cricket were rife ever since his appearance on Pakistan-based 'ARY News' as an expert for the ICC World Cup 2023 alongside former left-arm quick Mohammad Amir while the domestic List A tournament 'Pakistan Cup' was going on.

Imad played 55 ODIs and 66 T20Is for Pakistan as a utility left-hand batter and unorthodox left-arm spinner, who swung the ball into the right-hander more than turning it past them. He was particularly influential and impactful to Pakistan's cause in the shortest format with his steady and relentless bowling, finishing with a stellar economy rate of just 6.27 with 65 wickets.