Left-arm fast bowler hangs up his boots after 15 years of service
LAHORE, Pakistan — Wahab Riaz, the left-arm fast bowler who was a key member of Pakistan’s cricket team for over a decade, has announced his retirement from international cricket.
Riaz, 36, made the announcement on social media on Wednesday. He said that he had been planning to retire from international cricket for the past two years and that he felt it was time to step away and give the next generation of players a chance to shine.
“It has been an honor and a privilege to represent Pakistan on the world stage for the past 15 years,” Riaz said in a statement. “I have made some great memories and I will cherish them forever. I want to thank all my teammates, coaches, and support staff for their support over the years. I also want to thank the fans for their love and support.”
🏏 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
Riaz made his international debut in 2008, and he quickly established himself as one of the most feared bowlers in world cricket. He was known for his ability to generate pace and swing, and he was also a very effective death bowler.
Riaz played in 27 Tests, 91 ODIs, and 36 T20Is for Pakistan. He took 83 wickets in Tests, 120 wickets in ODIs, and 34 wickets in T20Is. He was also a member of the Pakistan team that won the ICC World Twenty20 in 2009.
Riaz said that he plans to continue playing cricket in franchise leagues around the world. He is currently playing for Peshawar Zalmi in the Pakistan Super League.
“I am excited to start a new chapter in my cricketing career,” Riaz said. “I want to continue playing cricket and entertaining the fans. I also want to help the next generation of players develop their skills.”
Here are some FAQs about Wahab Riaz’s retirement from international cricket:
- Why did Wahab Riaz retire from international cricket?
Wahab Riaz said that he had been planning to retire from international cricket for the past two years. He said that he felt it was time to step away and give the next generation of players a chance to shine.
- What are Wahab Riaz’s plans for the future?
Wahab Riaz said that he plans to continue playing cricket in franchise leagues around the world. He is currently playing for Peshawar Zalmi in the Pakistan Super League.
- What are Wahab Riaz’s achievements in international cricket?
Wahab Riaz is a highly decorated cricketer. He has played in 27 Tests, 91 ODIs, and 36 T20Is for Pakistan. He took 83 wickets in Tests, 120 wickets in ODIs, and 34 wickets in T20Is. He was also a member of the Pakistan team that won the ICC World Twenty20 in 2009.
