ICC World Cup 2019 | I am playing because God has destined it to be so, says Imam-ul-Haq
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Pakistan opener Imam-ul-Haq has stated that he is playing in the Pakistan national team because his god wants him to and is destined to be a part of the team. Imam has been the talk of the town for his relationship with Pakistan legend Inzamam-ul-Haq and has been often accused of nepotism.
Imam happens to be the nephew of Pakistani legend Inzamam-ul-Haq, who is currently serving as the chairman of selectors. The southpaw was once again accused of nepotism and has dismissed the talks regarding his spot in the Pakistani line-up.
āI donāt care about the pros and cons of my relationship with him . This is something that you people, the media, speak about. Our public is innocent and they believe whatever they are told. I believe in Allah. I am playing because he has destined it to be so,ā said Imam, reported ESPNCricinfo.Ā
Imam claims that these kinds of talk has only pushed him for good and made him mentally strong. He remains unfazed with the off-field antics and is primarily focusing on just his performance.Ā
āBut such talk has taught me a lot and made me strong mentally. It does hurt, but I try to take it positively. It is true that even if I perform in ten matches but fail in two, I am criticised. But I try not to be bothered and try to win my fans over with my performances. Neither you nor I can say what my future is. It is only Allah who knows. My responsibility is to perform and the rest is on up to the PCB,ā Imam said.
Imam finished the World Cup campaign with 305 runs in his kitty at an average of 38.12 and did reasonably well at the top. He also became the youngest Pakistani cricketer to have a world Cup century under his belt.
āI do feel that I can improve my career strike rate from where it is today. But, we have to realise my role in the team. I open with Fakhar, who is an aggressive batsman. He is given the role to play aggressive cricket while I have to anchor the innings. Babar and I have the same roles. Sometimes the opposition bowls well and you have give them the respect because of which things donāt go to plan for us. But whenever either of us has batted deep, we have touched 300-310." the Pakistani opener concluded.
