Full Name: Imam-ul-Haq Date of Birth: December 22, 1995 Birthplace: Multan, Punjab, Pakistan Position: ODI and Test top-order opener Imam-ul-Haq is a name that evokes grace, patience, and a deep-rooted cricketing legacy. Often in the shadow of his famous uncle Inzamam-ul-Haq, Imam has quietly carved his own identity with sheer consistency, elegant strokeplay, and a temperament tailor-made for international cricket. Born in Multan, a city deeply connected to cricketing heritage, Imam was introduced to the game from a young age. Though many dismissed his early selection as favoritism due to his family ties, Imam knew he had to work twice as hard to prove his merit. His response wasn’t loud statements — it was weighty runs, determination, and the calmness of a seasoned pro. Imam made an unforgettable debut in October 2017 against Sri Lanka in ODIs, scoring a century on debut, becoming only the second Pakistani to achieve this feat. It was more than just a hundred — it was a powerful answer to critics and a declaration of arrival. Over the next few years, Imam established himself as a mainstay in Pakistan’s ODI top order, particularly forming a dominant partnership with Fakhar Zaman. In 2019, during the Cricket World Cup, Imam added stability to the top, often providing solid starts with his composed batting style. He may not be the flashiest, but his game is built around timing, placement, and mental resilience — a trait much needed in Pakistan’s sometimes fragile batting lineup. One of his standout moments came in 2022, where he scored back-to-back centuries against Australia in a historic home series win. That performance cemented his status as not just a reliable opener but also one who thrives under pressure against top-quality opposition. His ability to rotate strike and anchor innings has made him indispensable in Pakistan’s ODI structure. While his T20 career hasn’t mirrored the same success, Imam’s contributions in Test and ODI cricket have made him a trusted name. In Tests, especially in home conditions, he has scored crucial hundreds and often taken the sting out of new-ball attacks. His innings in Rawalpindi and Karachi in recent years reflect his growing maturity and hunger to succeed in the red-ball format. What sets Imam apart is his calm demeanor, off-field humility, and methodical preparation. He studies bowlers, understands conditions, and adjusts his technique accordingly. He’s not just a batsman — he’s a student of the game, often introspective and always looking to improve. Despite facing criticism for his strike rate or comparisons with his uncle, Imam has chosen to let his bat do the talking. With an ODI average hovering around 50 and multiple centuries to his name, he has more than proved his place is earned, not gifted. Off the pitch, Imam is articulate, soft-spoken, and widely respected in the dressing room. His discipline, focus, and willingness to carry the team’s batting load make him one of the quiet yet essential pillars of Pakistan cricket. Imam-ul-Haq is not just writing his own story — he’s doing so with dignity, class, and an eye firmly on the future.