Veteran Pakistan pacer Wahab Riaz retires from international cricket, pens down emotional letter

After being out of action from international cricket for almost three years, veteran Pakistan pacer Wahab Riaz has finally announced his retirement from the game. Riaz came up with an emotional tweet with a press release on his official Twitter handle, stating about the end of his career in international cricket.

Notably, the 38-year-old made his last appearance for Pakistan over two and a half years ago in Hamilton against New Zealand in a T20I on December 20, 2020. Since then, he has been playing around the world in various T20 leagues.

“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 are ahead in the world of franchise cricket!” wrote the Lahore-born pacer in his recent tweet, while announcing his retirement from international cricket.

It has been an honour and a privilege to represent Pakistan on the international stage: Wahab Riaz

Although the veteran pacer’s tweet also clarifies his retirement, he will still be active in franchise cricket including the tournaments such as the Pakistan Super League (PSL). “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,” Wahab was quoted as saying in an official press release.

“Wahab's decision to retire from international cricket is a testament to his unwavering belief in the potential of Pakistan's young cricketing talent. He is confident that the nation's fast bowling legacy is secure, allowing him the opportunity to focus on the exciting challenges that lie ahead in franchise cricket,” the press release reads further.

In his remarkable international career of 15 years, Wahab Riaz is also remembered in the cricketing world for his furious and memorable spell against former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson during the quarterfinal of ODI World Cup 2015.