Mohammad Hafeez retires from International cricket

Pakistan veteran all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez has announced his retirement from international cricket with immediate effect. Hafeez announced the same during a press conference in Lahore. He made his debut in 2003 (vs Zimbabwe at Sharjah Cricket Stadium) and had represented for a period of just over 18 years!

Image Credits: The News International

"Today I want to officially retire from the beautiful journey I started 18 years ago with Pakistan cricket. I represented Pakistan with great pride, and whatever I have played throughout my 18 years, I played with dignity. And whether it's on the field or off the field, I tried to raise Pakistan's flag high. I am very happy and satisfied with my career and achievements, which were all for Pakistan. So this is it for me," said Hafeez while announcing his retirement!

Hafeez retired from Test match format in December 2018, shifting his focus to limited-overs format since then! The 2019 ODI World Cup was his last appearance in ODI format while he was recalled into the T20I setup in 2020 having lost his place in the year in 2018!

"When you have a professional career as long as mine, you're bound to have your share of highs and lows, and it was no different for me. Results apart, I can say with conviction that I had more highs than lows since I had the privilege of playing with and against some of the finest exponents of the bat and the ball of my era," added Hafeez.

The 41-year old all-rounder has signed for Lahore Qalandars for the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL) and will be available to play. He has also reiterated the fact that he would be available to play franchise cricket around the world provided that his performances are good enough!