Imran Khan's Captaincy — Pakistan's Transformation 1982-89

Pakistan in 1982 had genuine talent but a reputation for indiscipline and selection-by-favouritism.

Imran's appointment displaced senior players and was contested politically; he insisted on full selection power.

Imran took over the captaincy in 1982 from a Pakistan side that had never won a Test series in England, India or the West Indies. By the end of his first stint in 1989 he had won series in England (1987, the first by Pakistan), in India (1986-87, the first overseas Test series win in India by Pakistan) and had drawn 1-1 in the Caribbean (1988). Statistically he is the most successful Test captain in Pakistan's history with a win-loss ratio better than 2:1. He instituted a meritocratic selection regime, pushed for fast-bowling academies, persuaded fast-bowling spotting circuits in Lahore and Karachi, mentored Wasim Akram, Inzamam-ul-Haq, Javed Miandad's tactical role and brought in Waqar Younis. He was also the public face of Pakistan cricket through a politically charged era — military rule under Zia, the Sharjah era, and the Gatting affair.

“I wanted Pakistan to be a team that walked into any ground in the world expecting to win.”

“Imran created the modern Pakistani fast bowler.”

Imran retired briefly in 1987 but was recalled for the 1992 World Cup, which Pakistan won.