Pakistan’s veteran fast bowler, Wahab Riaz, has officially announced his retirement from international cricket, marking the end of a remarkable 15-year journey representing his country on the global stage. While stepping away from the international arena, Wahab will continue to contribute his skills and experience to franchise cricket.
Having made his debut in 2008, Wahab Riaz leaves behind a legacy that includes 27 Test matches, 91 One-Day Internationals (ODIs), and 36 Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) for Pakistan. His impressive performances and unwavering dedication have left an indelible mark on the sport. In Test cricket, he secured a total of 83 wickets with an average of 34.50, while in ODIs, he claimed 120 wickets at an average of 34.30. Wahab’s T20I career saw him take 34 wickets at an average of 28.55.
The fast bowler’s last appearance in national colors was in 2020, but he remained an influential figure in Pakistan cricket even after his international retirement. He recently represented Peshawar Zalmi in the 2023 Pakistan Super League (PSL), showcasing his commitment to the game and his desire to continue contributing to the domestic cricket scene.
Aside from his cricketing achievements, Wahab Riaz also ventured into politics and was appointed as the caretaker sports minister of the Punjab province in January of this year, demonstrating his multifaceted interests and engagement with broader social issues.
Wahab Riaz Statement
In a heartfelt statement, Wahab expressed his gratitude towards his supporters, teammates, coaches, family, and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for their unwavering support throughout his career. He mentioned, “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’s retirement marks the end of an era in Pakistan cricket, and his contributions will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come. As the cricketing community bids farewell to a seasoned player and welcomes him to the next chapter of his career, Wahab Riaz’s legacy will continue to shine brightly in the annals of the sport.
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