Azhar Ali retirement
Azhar Ali, one of Pakistan’s most effective top-order batters, decided to take retirement from the longest format of the game right after the third Test against England.
The former Pakistani skipper, who played for Pakistan in 96 tests and 53 ODIs, shocked his fans by announcing that the third test against Pakistan will be his last test in international cricket.
“It has been a great honour and privilege for me to represent my country at the highest level. Deciding on when to call it a day is always tough. But, after contemplating deeply, I realised that this is the right time for me to retire from Test cricket,” said Azhar while addressing a press conference on Friday.
There are many people who I am grateful to in this strenuous, yet beautiful journey. I want to make a special mention of my family without whose sacrifices: I would not have been where I am today. My parents, wife, siblings, and children have been my strength throughout.
“I have been blessed to share the dressing room with some of the most outstanding cricketers. With whom I share a strong bond. Feel much richer by calling these people my friends. I am also blessed to have played under some wonderful coaches to whom I will always remain grateful.
Azhar said he is retiring as a fulfilled cricketer as he ticked most of goals set for himself.
“I retire from international cricket as a fulfilled cricketer who ticked most of the goals he had set for himself. Not many cricketers go on to lead their countries. And that I was able to captain Pakistan is a matter of great pride for me. From being a kid who started as a leg-spinner to becoming a mainstay in the Test batting line-up, I had the loveliest moments of my life that I will cherish forever.”
What Pakistan Cricket Board’s chairman Ramiz Raza said about Azhar’s decision?
“Azhar Ali has been one of the most committed and loyal servants of Pakistan cricket. His grit and determination have been an inspiration for many young cricketers. And he is a role model for up and coming cricketers, said PCB Chairman, Ramiz Raza.
“While it is sad that Pakistan will not have a player of his experience in the dressing room to draw upon, it only reflects the circle of life. I hope to see Azhar continuing to play a role in the development of Pakistan cricket. And sharing his vast knowledge and experience with budding cricketers.”
The 37-year-old Azhar is Pakistan’s one of most prolific players. He is the fifth highest run-scorer for Pakistan in test cricket, only behind Mohammad Yousuf (7,530), Inzamam-ul-Haq (8,829), Javed Miandad (8,832), and Younis Khan (10,099).
The veteran is the only player from Pakistan, who achieved a milestone of scoring a triple century in pink-ball test. He completed this record during a game against West Indies in Dubai. He scored an unbeaten 302 in that match, which remains his highest score in test cricket.
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