Syed Imad Wasim Haider

Imad Wasim attended high school in Islamabad, where he was an exceptional student with a primary focus on biological sciences. He was enrolled in pre-medical studies and intended to become a doctor before his selection for the Pakistan Under-19 team altered his path.

In 2007, he made the difficult decision to put his medical studies on hold to pursue professional cricket full-time. He later engaged in several sports management certifications to complement his on-field experience, preparing for a future in the administrative side of the sport.

Imad Wasim's professional career began with his captaincy of the Pakistan Under-19 team, where his leadership and all-round ability were immediately evident. He made his domestic debut for Islamabad in 2005 and gradually worked his way into the national consciousness through consistent performances in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy. His international breakthrough finally arrived in 2015 when he made his T20I and ODI debuts against Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka, respectively.

One of the most defining moments of his career was the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy, where his economical bowling and handy batting helped Pakistan secure the title. He became the first Pakistani to take a five-wicket haul in T20Is during a series against the West Indies, a record that solidified his status as a premier short-format specialist. His success as the captain of Karachi Kings in the PSL, leading them to their maiden title in 2020, further established his tactical credentials.

In November 2023, Imad announced his retirement from all formats of international cricket to focus on franchise leagues. However, following a spectacular performance in the 2024 PSL where he led Islamabad United to victory, he reversed his decision to participate in the 2024 T20 World Cup. In the 2026 PSL season, he has been instrumental for Islamabad United, notably taking 3 wickets for 21 runs against Hyderabad Kingsmen in April 2026.

Beyond Pakistan, Imad has been a regular feature in the Caribbean Premier League, the Big Bash League, and the Hundred. His ability to deliver tight overs at the start of an innings has made him a top-tier asset for teams like the Jamaica Tallawahs and Melbourne Renegades. As of May 2026, his stats include over 300 wickets in the T20 format, maintaining an economy rate of under seven, which is among the best for spinners globally.

He currently holds a high-value contract in the ILT20 and continues to be a top performer in the Bangladesh Premier League. His role in 2026 has transitioned toward being a finishing specialist with the bat, often promoted up the order to counter specific spin threats. His focus remains on winning the 2026 T20 World Cup for Pakistan, a goal that brought him back to international duty.

Imad Wasim was born in Swansea, Wales, where his father worked as an engineer; the family moved back to Pakistan when Imad was still an infant. He is fluent in English, Urdu, and Punjabi, which has helped him integrate easily into various international dressing rooms. He is known for his disciplined lifestyle and was once a top-ranked junior squash player before choosing cricket.

In August 2019, Imad married Sannia Ashfaq in a beautiful ceremony at the Faisal Mosque in Islamabad. The couple has one daughter, Inaya, born in March 2021, who Imad often mentions as his greatest motivation. He maintains a residence in Islamabad and is known for his interest in high-end fashion and luxury watches.

His philanthropic activities include supporting healthcare initiatives in rural Pakistan, drawing on his early interest in medicine. He is also a mentor for young cricketers at the regional level in Islamabad, often hosting training sessions during the off-season. Imad is considered one of the most articulate and well-read members of the Pakistan national team.