Imad Wasim Comments on Sikandar Raza’s Return for PSL X Final

Former Pakistan all-rounder Imad Wasim has often been in the limelight for his candid takes, and his recent comments on Sikandar Raza after the PSL X final have once again stirred conversation across the internet.

Sikandar Raza’s unexpected return to the Lahore Qalandars squad just moments before the toss in the PSL X final became one of the biggest talking points of the night. However, his mad dash halfway across the world did not impress Imad Wasim as much as it did everyone else.

Raza had been on national duty, representing Zimbabwe in a one-off Test match against England in Nottingham just a day prior to the final. The match ended late Saturday night (Pakistan time), and with the PSL final scheduled for Sunday evening in Lahore, his availability was in serious doubt.

But just minutes before the toss at Gaddafi Stadium, Raza rejoined the Qalandars—flying in straight from the UK and declaring himself ready to play. He went on to play a crucial role in Lahore’s successful chase of 202 against Quetta Gladiators, helping them clinch their third PSL title.

When asked to describe Raza in one word during an interview, Imad Wasim took a broader view of what it takes to be a modern cricketer, especially in franchise leagues.

“Like Shoaib Akhtar said—money can do things for you,” Imad Wasim remarked. “If you’re getting paid, you’ll go. I travel a lot too. Sometimes, one match ends, and the next day you’re playing another. I’ve traveled 24 hours straight and gone directly into a match. So yes, money can make different things happen.”

Despite this honest assessment of the financial side of the game, Imad Wasim also praised Raza’s professionalism and performances.

“Sikandar Raza is a great player—he’s been performing consistently around the world for the last couple of years. He even won the ILT20 final for his team. He’s a wonderful human being and a proper team player. I’ve played both with and against him, and the way he has performed recently, you can definitely call him a match-winner,” he said.

While Imad Wasim’s comments have become the talk of the internet, there appears to be no malice involved in his take.

Sikandar Raza, meanwhile, proved his worth to Lahore once again in the PSL final. With Lahore needing a good chunk in the final few overs to get over the line, Raza’s quick-fire 22 off just 7 balls got them over the line.

For Lahore Qalandars, it was another memorable title. For Sikandar Raza, it was another reminder of why he’s valued all over the T20 world—even if it means hopping continents overnight to deliver under pressure.