Fast bowler Wahab Riaz bids adieu to int’l cricket

ISLAMABAD: Fast bowler Wahab Riaz has announced his retirement from international cricket, ending a 15-year career. He will, however, continue playing franchise cricket.

Wahab played 27 Tests, 91 ODIs and 36 T20Is for Pakistan and last turned out in national colours back in 2020. He picked up 83 wickets in Test cricket at an average of 34.50, 120 in ODIs at 34.30, while in T20Is, he had 34 wickets at 28.55. He was most recently part of Peshawar Zalmi in PSL 2023.

Wahab has been involved in politics in recent times, having been named the caretaker sports minister of the Punjab province in January this year.

🏏 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

“I have been speaking about my retirement plans past two years, that 2023 is my target to retire from International cricket, and I feel comfortable now more than ever that I have served my country and National team to the best I could have,” Wahab said in a press statement.

Sage Steele waves goodbye to ESPN following legal battle settlement

“It has been an honor 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.”

Known for his fast left-arm bowling as well as his batting, Riaz, 38, received particular acclaim for his all-round performance in the 2015 Cricket World Cup.

He has been playing for Pakistan since 2010. He is one of 13 Pakistani players ever to have taken a five-wicket haul in his debut in a Test match.

Riaz was appointed as advisor to the Chief Minister Punjab for sports and youth affairs in March 2023.