Pakistan batter Imam-ul-Haq closed his account in the 2025 One Day Cup with a fourth century for Yorkshire in today's semi-final at Scarborough.
The opener has been in sublime form in the competition, having signed for Yorkshire as a replacement for Ruturaj Gaikwad. He was a crucial part in securing the county a home semi-final against Hampshire, scoring a 70 in their final group game against Kent.
Batting in the all-important semi, he struck gold yet again, reaching a century off 96 balls and battling rain delays in a tough chase. Hampshire had set Yorkshire 305 to progress to the final, with England all-rounder Liam Dawson hitting a rescuing century from No.5. The spinner scored 142 off 116 balls after Hampshire were reduced to 78-4. Despite Imam's efforts, Yorkshire lost persistent wickets, with no other batter scoring more than 30. Even after the target was reduced to 254 in 41 overs, Yorkshire finished well short and were knocked out of the competition.
Imam signs off superb One Day Cup campaign
Imam's form has been a key driving force behind Yorkshire's campaign. His century today (August 31) was his fourth in eight innings, in addition to scoring three half centuries. In total, he scored 688 runs in the competition, at an average of 98.28.
Even if Yorkshire had reached the final, the semi-final innings would have been Imam's last in this year's edition. Imam's deal with Yorkshire was meant to be in place for the remainder of the season, covering Yorkshire's final games in the County Championship in addition to the 50-over competition.
However, Imam is reportedly being considered for a recall to Pakistan's Test side for their series against South Africa in October. In order to break back into the side, Pakistan selectors reportedly want Imam to translate his Yorkshire form to domestic cricket in Pakistan. The Hanif Mohammed Trophy, Pakistan's first-class competition, began this week.
Imam hasn't played Test cricket for Pakistan since 2023.
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