Wahab Riaz, the fast bowler from Pakistan decided to take an indefinite break from red-ball cricket as he wants to focus more on the white-ball format. He took to the social media to announce the news just two days before the commencement of Quaid-e-Azam Trophy where he about to take part for Southern Punjab.
The story
Just a couple of days before Quaid-e-Azam Trophy Wahab Riaz wrote on his Twitter account, “After a lot of thinking and discussions with my family and board, I have decided to take a break from red-ball cricket and maintain my fitness and focus on the shorter format for my country. It was a tough decision and I appreciate my Board’s support and guidance during this time.” Incidentally, he was also absent from the Southern Punjab’s camp in Lahore, where the side was preparing for their opening game against Central Punjab.
What Wahab says
Since his debut in Test cricket for Pakistan in 2010 Wahab has played 27 Tests and taken 83 wickets at an average of 34.50. Since January 2018, he has played only five red-ball matches, one Test and four First-Class games.
The Pakistan Cricket Board quoted Wahab in their media release where he said, “During this period, I will like to focus on 50-over and 20-over cricket, and continue to access my fitness for the longer version of the game. At a stage I feel I cannot only return but also perform with the red-ball, I would make myself available.”
Wahab explained how the board tried to convince him to pursue a career in red-ball cricket. “But today I met them to convey my decision. I am grateful for their understanding and support.”
It’s actually been more than two years since Wahab last featured for Pakistan in T20I cricket. But his experience in the limited-overs, especially in T20 cricket, has triggered him to try to get more success in the white-ball format.
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