LAHORE: Leg-spinner Usman Qadir has moved to New South Wales, Australia, in pursuit of a new chapter in cricket.
The 31-year-old currently plays for Hawkesbury Cricket Club in Sydney and is seeking better opportunities after retiring from Pakistan cricket last October.
In an emotional post on social media at the time, Qadir spoke about his journey with Pakistan cricket, expressing his gratitude for the honor of representing his country. “It was a great honor to represent my country,” he wrote. “I am grateful for the support of my coaches and teammates who have been with me every step of the way.”
Qadir’s career with the Pakistan national team has seen flashes of brilliance. He made an impressive debut in 2020 during the T20I series against Zimbabwe, where he took eight wickets for 60 runs in three matches and was named Player of the Series.
For a brief period, he was a key player in Pakistan’s leg, even replacing Shadab Khan from the T20I side. However, inconsistency and off-field issues marred his career path.
Before committing to Pakistan cricket, Qadir was on his way to playing for Australia, representing Western Australia and playing in the Big Bash League (BBL) for the Perth Scorchers and Sydney Thunder. In addition, he had the honor of playing for the Australian Prime Minister’s XI.
But his time in Australia was fraught with challenges, including disciplinary concerns.
In 2019, weeks after the sudden death of his father Abdul Qadir, Usman surprised many by joining the Pakistani national team for a series in Australia under coach Misbah-ul-Haq.
Usman later admitted that fulfilling his late father’s dream of seeing him represent Pakistan was the driving force behind his decision to leave Australia and return to the country of his birth.
Abdul Qadir, one of Pakistan’s most famous leg-spinners, has remained a lasting influence on Usman’s cricketing ambitions.
Despite his father’s legacy, Usman has struggled to establish a consistent place in the Pakistani side. His last appearance for Pakistan was during the Asian Games in October 2023.
He also expressed his frustration with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), accusing him of mishandling his injury earlier that year, claiming to have evidence to support his claims.
After this turbulent chapter, Kader returned to Australia in hopes of rebuilding his career. “Cricket is my livelihood and I came to Australia with a plan for my future,” Qadir said. “I am optimistic and determined to only get good opportunities in cricket.”
Qadir’s move to Australia also underscores his focus on embracing his father’s legacy while forging his own path. “As I step into this new chapter, I will continue my father’s legacy, embracing my love for cricket and the lessons he instilled in me,” he said last year.
Sources indicate that his family is expected to join him soon, as he seeks to make his name in Australian cricket.