Wahab Riaz announces international retirement to focus on franchise cricket

Wahab Riaz during 2015 world cup (Pic: AFP)

Pakistan fast bowler Wahab Riaz on Wednesday announced his retirement from international cricket to focus on playing T20 leagues around the world.

He made his international debut for Pakistan in an ODI against Zimbabwe back in February 2008

The 38-year-old left-arm pacer played 27 Tests, 91 ODIs and 36 T20 Internationals from 2008-2020, claiming 83, 120 and 34 wickets respectively.

"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 cricket!" he said in a statement posted on social media platform X, formerly Twitter.

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"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, added the fast bowler.

Riaz is the ninth bowler in history of Pakistan to take a five-for on debut, recorded against England as he took 5/63 at The Oval.

In the quarterfinal of the 2011 World Cup in Mohali, he again achieved a renowned five-wicket haul, although in a losing cause, against India.

But for many, his most famous spell came in the 2015 World Cup quarterfinal when he rattled Australia batters, especially Shane Watson, with a blitz of short-pitch bowling.

Riaz decided to focus on limited-overs cricket in 2019 and took an indefinite break from red-ball cricket.

He has now officially said goodbye to the international stage.

"I have been talking about my retirement plans for the past two years; my goal is to stop playing international cricket in 2023, and I feel more confident than ever that I have done the best I could to serve my country and National team."