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The Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024 concluded with a resounding victory for Islamabad United, but amidst the celebrations, a controversy brewed that overshadowed the team’s triumph. Imad Wasim, the star all-rounder for Islamabad United, found himself in hot water after a video surfaced showing him smoking in the dressing room following his title-clinching performance in the final match against Multan Sultans.
The riveting final showdown between Islamabad and Multan
The final match of PSL 2024 was a spectacle of cricketing excellence. Multan Sultans, after winning the toss, posted a competitive total of 159/9 in their allotted 20 overs. Usman Khan‘s resilient innings of 57 runs and Iftikhar Ahmed‘s quickfire 32 propelled Multan to a challenging total. However, it was Islamabad United’s bowlers, led by Imad, who stole the show. Imad’s sensational spell of 5 wickets for 23 runs played a pivotal role in restricting Multan’s batting lineup.
Controversy strikes: Imad Wasim caught smoking during live-action
As the first innings of the final match reached its climax, the camera caught Imad smoking a cigarette in the dressing room. The video swiftly went viral, sparking debates and discussions across the cricketing fraternity. Imad’s actions drew criticism from fans, pundits, and health advocates alike, raising questions about his responsibility as a role model for aspiring cricketers.
Here’s the video:
Imad bahi what is this behaviour
The reason behind 22-5#Imadwasim pic.twitter.com/GELQGIXeqe— Babar Azam's Army (@army_babar56) March 18, 2024
Also READ: MI pacer Jason Behrendorff out of IPL 2024; replacement announced
Islamabad claims their second PSL title
Coming back to the match, Islamabad United chased down the target set by Multan with ease, thanks to a stellar batting performance. Their top-order batters showcased their class, with Alex Hales and Shadab Khan contributing crucial runs to guide their team to victory. The chase was completed with on the last delivery of the match, securing Islamabad United’s second PSL title.
The fallout: Reactions and consequences
Imad’s smoking controversy tarnished the celebrations for Islamabad United. While some defended his actions as a personal choice, many condemned it as a breach of professional conduct, particularly given his status as a public figure.
Imad smoking gesture during the victory celebration
In addition to the smoking controversy, another video surfaced showing Imad celebrating the title win with his daughter in his arms, pretending to smoke in jest alongside team captain Shadab. This further fueled the controversy, as it raised concerns about the message being sent to impressionable fans, especially the younger audience.
Imad showing how it’s done ……
Well not batting or bowling but his Cigarette smoking skills 🚬 😃#ImadWasim #IUvMS #HBLPSLFinal pic.twitter.com/C7B0KljKWz— Kamran Ali (@Kam007_tweet) March 18, 2024
