LAHORE: Pakistan cricketer and left-arm arm bowler Wahab Riaz has announced his retirement from international cricket.
Wahab said he is stepping from the international pitch but will continue to appear in franchise cricket. He thanked the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), his teammates, fans and others who supported him.
“After an incredible journey, I’ve decided to retire from international cricket. Big thank you to PCB, my family, coaches, mentors, teammates, fans, and everyone who supported me, “ he said in a statement on X, formerly known as Twitter,
“Exciting times ahead in the world of franchise cricket!” he added. Wahab is currently serving as Sports Minister in the Punjab interim cabinet.
???? Stepping off the international pitch
???? After an incredible journey, I’ve decided to retire from international cricket. Big thank you to PCB, my family, coaches, mentors, teammates, fans, and everyone who supported me. ????
Exciting times ahead in the world of franchise…
— Wahab Riaz (@WahabViki) August 16, 2023
Wahab Riaz also issued a statement on his official announcement from international cricket and participating in franchise cricket across the globe.
“I have been speaking about my retirement plans past two years, that 2023 is my target to retire from International cricket, and I feel comfortable now more than ever that I have served my country and National team to the best I could have” he said in a statement.
Reflecting on his decision, Wahab Riaz expressed, “It has been an honour and a privilege to represent Pakistan on the international stage. As I bid farewell to this chapter, I am thrilled to embark on a new adventure in franchise cricket, where I hope to entertain and inspire audiences while competing against some of the best talents in the world.”
The left-arm pacer played 27 Tests, 91 ODIs and 36 T20Is in his international career. Wahab has 237 International wickets under his belt, 1,104 professional wickets in his career.
He is the highest wicket-taker in PSL history and the first Pakistani cricketer to have 400 wickets in T20 format. His all-round performance in ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 earned him worldwide recognition.
