Wahab Riaz announces retirement from international cricket

Wahab Riaz. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images)

Veteran Pakistan pacer Wahab Riaz has announced his retirement from international cricket in order to focus more on franchise-based tournaments. Notably, the 38-year-old represented the national team in 27 Test matches, 91 ODIs and 36 T20Is and has picked up a total of 237 wickets in international cricket.

Speaking about his decision to retire, Riaz stated that it was an honour for him to represent Pakistan for such a long time and is now ready to start a new chapter in franchise cricket, where he wants to entertain and inspire the spectators.

“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,” Riaz said in a press release.

🏏 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

The press release also read that the decision has been made after Riaz’s unwavering belief in the potential of Pakistan’s young cricketing talent. Notably, the left-arm pacer made his international debut against Zimbabwe in 2008. He was sensational on his debut, picking up two wickets and giving away only 19 runs in his eight overs. On the other hand, he made his Test debut two years later, against England at The Oval. The pacer was once again brilliant, picking up an excellent five-for in the first innings and one in the second innings as the visiting team managed to win the match by four wickets.

Meanwhile, Riaz has not been part of Pakistan’s scheme of things for a long time now as the cricketer played his last international match in 2020 against New Zealand. He has played a lot of cricket in franchise tournaments in the meantime, including PSL, where he is the lead bowler of Peshawar Zalmi. He also features in Bangladesh Premier League and even played the last edition of the Lanka Premier League.