Pakistan’s well-regarded legspinner, Usman Qadir, has declared his exit from cricket in Pakistan. Age 31, Qadir proclaimed his decision on social platforms, showing appreciation for his mentors, peers, and the privilege of working for his homeland. “I’m bidding adieu to Pakistan’s cricket today,” Qadir disclosed. “I’m eternally grateful to have played for the nation, and for the backing I received from my mentors and peers by my side the entire journey.”
Usman Qadir – A Journey of Ups and Downs
Qadir’s path in cricket has seen its share of bends and turns. As he first stepped on the field for Pakistan in a T20I series versus Zimbabwe, he quickly caught attention, capturing eight wickets for only 60 runs across three games. This feat earned him the ‘Player of the Series’ title.
There was even a phase where he replaced Shadab Khan, the leading leg-spinner of Pakistan. But, his journey wasn’t a smooth run, marred by inconsistency in and outside the game. Initially, Australia was his target, having debuted for Western Australia in 2018. He participated in the Big Bash League (BBL), playing for teams like Perth Scorchers and Sydney Thunder.
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Yet, his potential was shadowed by discipline concerns and erratic plays during his Aussie stint. In 2019, a surprise chance emerged. Pakistan’s then-head coach, Misbah-ul-Haq, put Qadir on the team for a series against Australia. This came just after his father, Abdul Qadir, a renowned Pakistani leg-spinner, passed away. The loss deeply impacted Qadir, encouraging him to play for Pakistan, leaving his ambition to play for Australia behind.
A Brief Glimpse of Stardom
Qadir had a stop-and-start stint in Pakistan’s international team. He played a total of 25 T20Is and a solitary ODI. Though he kicked off on a high note, consistency was a challenge. He pitched in occasionally, filling the spinner’s shoes when required. His final gig was the 2023 Asian Games. Recently, he and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) weren’t on the best terms. He blamed the PCB for mishandling his injury, and in May, he even said he had proof. Despite the disagreements, Qadir still had a pivotal role in Pakistan’s T20 squad till lately.
Reflecting on His Father’s Legacy
The world often saw Usman Qadir in the shadow of his dad, Abdul Qadir’s, fame as a Pakistani cricket star. His last name held high importance, and Usman was focused on upholding his father’s memory and blazing his own trail. In his farewell message, he highlighted this when he said, “As I begin the next part of my journey, I’ll carry my father’s baton forward. I’ll hold onto my passion for cricket and the wisdom my father imparted to me. The spirit of Pakistani cricket and our shared experiences will always be part of me.”
Usman’s journey was not as stellar as his father’s, but his exceptional moments gave Pakistani fans high hopes. His speed in climbing the ranks as a legspinner gave fans unforgettable moments. However, the steady performance needed to lock in a spot on the national team was hard to come by.
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What’s Next for Usman Qadir?
Qadir, without hinting at what lies ahead, shows an unbroken love for cricket. He might stick to the sport, maybe as a coach or guide, sharing his dad’s teachings and his worldwide experiences. With Qadir stepping back, he might look into playing in international T20 leagues. His leg-spin abilities could be useful there.
Conclusion
Usman Qadir’s cricket path was both promising and challenging. He went from dreaming of playing for Australia to wearing Pakistan’s green jersey – his career is full of surprises. Although his international journey wasn’t as lengthy or as steady as some hoped, Qadir gave Pakistan’s cricket fans unforgettable moments. Now he’s retired, closing one phase, but his cricket passion endures. Usman Qadir’s role in cricket seems far from done.
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