Wahab Riaz announces retirement from international cricket

Wahab Riaz has announced his retirement from international cricket, making the announcement via Twitter on Wednesday (August 16). The left-arm paceman, however, will continue to play franchise cricket.

The 38-year-old featured in 27 Tests, 91 ODIs and 36 T20Is for Pakistan, picking up 83, 120 and 34 wickets respectively. Wahab, who made his international debut in 2008, last played for Pakistan in December 2020.

🏏 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” he said.

"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."

With a career spanning 15 years, Wahab ended with 237 International wickets under his belt. Earlier this year in January, he was named caretaker sports minister of the Punjab province.