The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has recalled batsman Imam-ul-Haq from Yorkshire. Imam has been in excellent form during the ongoing One-Day Cup tournament.
The 29-year-old player will play his last match for Yorkshire in the semi-final against Hampshire on Sunday. After this game, Imam will return to Pakistan.
Imam-ul-Haq has scored 583 runs in seven matches at an average of 97.16. This places him second among the top scorers in the competition. His highest score was an impressive 159 runs off 130 balls against Northamptonshire Steelbacks. This performance shows why he is considered one of the tournament’s best batsmen.
He has made three centuries and three fifties so far. His consistent performances helped Yorkshire top their group with seven wins from eight matches.
Teammate James Wharton praised Imam’s batting skills and his positive influence off the field. Wharton called him a “rock star” in the dressing room and praised his ability to guide teammates during matches.
Imam joined Yorkshire in July as a replacement for India’s Ruturaj Gaikwad. His stay was expected to last for the entire season, including the County Championship. However, his strong performances caught the attention of Pakistan’s selectors.
Imam missed Pakistan’s recent Test series against the West Indies. Now, he is being considered for a recall ahead of Pakistan’s Test series against South Africa in October. Selectors will also review his red-ball performance in the upcoming Hanif Mohammad Trophy before finalizing the Test squad.
Yorkshire will now face the challenge of filling the gap left by Imam-ul-Haq’s early departure. His short stay had a big impact both on and off the field.
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