Usman Qadir moves Australia for new cricketing chapter

15 January, 2025

Currently playing for Hawkesbury Cricket Club in Sydney, the 31-year-old is seeking better opportunities after retiring from Pakistan cricket last October.

In a heartfelt social media post at the time, Qadir reflected on his journey with Pakistan cricket, expressing gratitude for the honour of representing his country. "It has been an immense honour to represent my country," he wrote. "I'm thankful for the support of my coaches and teammates who have been with me every step of the way."

Qadir's career for the Pakistan national team saw flashes of brilliance. He made an impressive debut in 2020 during a T20I series against Zimbabwe, claiming eight wickets for 60 runs in three matches and earning the Player of the Series title.

For a brief period, he was Pakistan’s leading leg spinner, even replacing Shadab Khan from the T20I side. However, inconsistency and off-field issues marred his career trajectory.

Before committing to Pakistan cricket, Qadir was on track to play for Australia, representing Western Australia and playing in the Big Bash League (BBL) for Perth Scorchers and Sydney Thunder. Additionally, he had the honour of playing for Australia’s Prime Minister’s XI.

His time in Australia, however, was fraught with challenges, including disciplinary concerns.

In 2019, weeks after his father Abdul Qadir’s sudden passing, Usman surprised many by joining Pakistan’s squad for a series in Australia under the then head 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 celebrated leg spinners, remained a constant influence on Usman’s cricketing ambitions.

Despite his father’s legacy, Usman struggled to establish a consistent spot in the Pakistan side. His last appearance for Pakistan came during the Asian Games in October 2023.

He also voiced frustrations with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), accusing it of mishandling his injury earlier that year, claiming he had evidence to back his allegations.

With this turbulent chapter behind him, Qadir has returned to Australia with hopes of rebuilding his career. “Cricket is my livelihood, I have come to Australia with a plan for my future,” Qadir said. “I am hopeful and determined that I will get good opportunities in cricket only.”

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 be continuing my dad's legacy, embracing both 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.