Former Pakistan cricket team chief selector Muhammad Wasim has disclosed that Pakistan all-rounder Imad Wasim concealed the true nature of his injury during this critical period.
Speaking during the Samaa TV programme 'Zor ka Jor' after Pakistan's shocking loss to India in their second match of the ongoing T20 World Cup, Wasim claimed that Imad had a knee injury, but claimed it was a rib issue, raising concerns about the team's transparency and fitness management.
"If there is a compromise on fitness, then the results will be the same," Muhammad Wasim stated.
Reflecting on the team's cohesion and unity, the former selector lamented the current state of affairs. "Two years ago, the team was united. With the entry of certain people, the atmosphere and results of the team are in front of everyone," he remarked.
Also Read: T20 World Cup: Imad Wasim may be sent back after Pakistan-India clash
Earlier, it was being said that since Imad Wasim had not fully recovered from his health issues, the team management was considering sending him back after the match against India. Sources said the team management was keen on adding Imad to the match against India.
In light of Imad Wasim's uncertain fitness status, discussions have begun regarding potential replacements. One name that has surfaced is that of spinner Mehran Mumtaz. Sources suggest that the team management is seriously considering adding Mehran Mumtaz to the squad in place of Imad Wasim for the upcoming matches.
In a nail-biting encounter at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium on Sunday, India clinched a narrow six-run victory over arch-rivals Pakistan in their second match of the T20 World Cup 2024.
Also Read: India edge Pakistan in seesaw T20 World Cup thriller
Pakistan, who appeared to have a solid start with an unblemished first over, faltered as skipper Babar Azam fell victim to Jasprit Bumrah after scoring just 13 runs. The early setback put pressure on the Green Shirts, who struggled to build momentum despite Mohammad Rizwan's determined efforts.
Usman Khan stepped in following Azam's dismissal, offering some support to Rizwan. However, Khan's resistance was short-lived as he succumbed to Axar Patel’s bowling. Pakistan desperately needed a stable partnership during the middle overs, but their hopes dwindled as key batters Fakhar Zaman (13 off 8), Shadab Khan (4 off 7), and Imad Wasim (15 off 23) failed to make significant contributions.