Imamul Haq says he enjoys ‘Parchi’ tag

Pakistan opener Imamul Haq has said that he enjoys the infamous ‘parchi’ tag, which is literally just a chit of paper but in the subcontinent it is normally associated with someone who came up the ranks through nepotism. It has been part and parcel of Imam’s cricket career since his induction into the Pakistan national side, during the tenure of his uncle Inzamamul Haq as the national chief selector.  

While talking during Peshawar Zalmi’s media session in Karachi, ahead of the upcoming season of Habib Bank Limited (HBL) Pakistan Super League (PSL), Imam brushed aside the notion that he was bothered by this particular tag.  

“This talk about parchi is hidden from no one but now I enjoy it and so does everyone else,” said Imam.

“Whenever I play for Pakistan or Zalmi, I try to perform to the best of my ability and keep my intensity high,” he added.

ALSO READ: WATCH: Watson surprised by reception upon arrival in Pakistan

Imam’s teammate and left-arm pacer Wahab Riaz, highest wicket-taker in HBL PSL’s history and an integral part of the Zalmi franchise, was also optimistic about making a comeback in the national side.

“I’m not worried and keen on making a comeback in the Pakistan team,” said Riaz. “I will regain my place in the side on the basis of my performance.”

Veteran Pakistan wicketkeeper- batsman Kamran Akmal, who is also the highest run-score in HBL PSL’s history, while speaking on this occasion said: “I’m not thinking about Pakistan comeback right now and my entire focus is on PSL.”

Peshawar Zalmi’s Head Coach Mohammad Akram also confirmed that former West Indies captain Darren Sammy will remain the captain of the franchise, while Riaz will serve as his deputy.

“Zamli’s captain [Sammy] has been the same one for the past three years and there will be no change in this regard this year as well,” said Akram. “Wahab will be the vice-captain of the side.”

All 34 matches of PSL5 are set to be played across four international venues of the country, Karachi, Lahore, Multan and Rawalpindi, from February 20 to March 22.