Imam hits back at ‘haters’ with gratitude

Pakistan opener Imamul Haq scored a brilliant century during the third ODI against South Africa in Centurion but his reaction after reaching the landmark stole the limelight.

The left-hander removed his helmet, established eye contact with the dressing room and made a yapping movement with his hands before putting his finger to his lips.

"[That gesture was about] my selection and all that stuff. I am the nephew of the chief selector. To all the people who criticised me over the years, the media and the people, I want to thank them. This has been possible because of them," said Imam during the innings break.

After the match, Imam also tweeted a photo and thanked his ‘haters’ for continuously criticising him.

Thankyou Everyone I really want to thank all those people who criticise and hates me so much because that makes me going so Thankyou once again for showing so much hate🤗🤗 pic.twitter.com/NXklOaR2NG

— Imam Ul Haq (@ImamUlHaq12) January 25, 2019

This was Imam’s fifth hundred in ODI cricket — in 19 ODI matches — but that could not prevent South Africa from winning a rain-hit match at the SuperSport Park on Friday.

Imam's 101 spurred Pakistan to an imposing 317 for six but South Africa won by 13 runs according to the Duckworth/Lewis/Stern method after rain twice stopped play during their reply.