After Imad Wasim, a former Pakistan all-rounder who shone with a five-wicket haul for Islamabad United, was spotted smoking away in the dressing room, an unusual incident occurred during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024 final. The incident was caught on tape, and cricket fans were taken aback when it rapidly went viral on social media.
At Karachi’s National Bank Cricket Stadium, Islamabad defeated the Multan Sultans by a thrilling two wickets, thanks in large part to Wasim’s outstanding effort on the field, when he claimed five vital wickets. He became the first bowler to take five wickets in a PSL final after his explosive performance wrecked havoc on the Multan Sultans batting lineup.
Wasim and captain Shadab Khan worked together to demolish Multan’s batting line in a thrilling but close encounter, limiting them to a meager 159 for nine. The winning celebration was spoiled, though, when video surfaced showing Wasim smoking in the locker room—a behavior not permitted in professional sports.
View the Imad Wasim smoking video here:
Imad Wasim smoking in dressing Room during PSL final
Pakistan Sutta league 😭😭pic.twitter.com/nNt3vv669R— Vaibhav Hatwal ◟̽◞̽ 🤧 (@vaibhav_hatwal) March 18, 2024
This episode makes me think of similar instances in the past, most notably when Australia’s Glenn Maxwell and Afghanistan’s Mohammad Shahzad came under fire for smoking during games. Such conduct casts doubt on cricket’s professionalism and discipline, in addition to harming the players’ reputations.
Islamabad United won its third PSL championship thanks to Guptill’s prolific hitting.
Islamabad United won their third PSL title because of the explosive half-century of veteran Kiwi batsman Martin Guptill and significant cameos from Azam Khan and Naseem Shah. Guptill’s scorching knock and the tenacious efforts of his colleagues showed Islamabad’s capacity to withstand pressure.
The highlight of the day continues to be Islamabad United’s victory on the field, despite Wasim’s smoking incident garnering media attention. As cricket supporters celebrate their team’s victory, the incident serves as a reminder of the obligations that come with being a professional athlete, both on and off the field.