From going viral for his Shoaib Akhtar-like bowling action to making his way into Oman’s Asia Cup 2025 squad, Muhammad Imran’s story is nothing short of remarkable.

Born in Dera Ismail Khan, Pakistan, on September 5, 1989, Imran left home at 18 against his family’s wishes to pursue a career in cricket. Blessed with raw pace — clocked at 143 km/h in his youth — he impressed in Karachi’s U-19 trials but never broke into Pakistan’s system. His career took a turn years later when bowling clips of him surfaced online in 2019, catching the eye of an Oman T20 franchise.

Imran moved to Muscat, working long shifts installing CCTV cameras while training in the evenings. His persistence eventually earned him a call-up to Oman’s national camp, where coach Duleep Mendis helped refine his skills. By 2024, he was a standout in the Oman D10 League, claiming 21 wickets in 14 matches, and soon after, he earned his international debut.

In T20Is, Imran made an immediate impact with 3 for 23 against the USA and has since picked up wickets at a healthy economy. His Shoaib Akhtar-inspired run-up and explosive release have made him a fan favourite, with many hailing him as “Oman’s Shoaib Akhtar.” At 35, Imran’s late-blooming journey is a testament to perseverance, as he now gears up to face elite opposition at the Asia Cup 2025.

(As of September 2025)