Former Pakistan Captain Sarfaraz Ahmed Announces Retirement From International Cricket

Former Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed has announced his retirement from international cricket. The wicketkeeper-batter led Pakistan to the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy and captained the team in over 100 matches.

Former Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed announced his retirement from international cricket on March 15. He confirmed the decision through a statement released by the Pakistan Cricket Board.

The wicketkeeper-batter leaves international cricket after a long career with Pakistan. He led the national side in more than 100 international matches across formats.

“It has been the greatest honour of my life to represent Pakistan. From leading the U19 team to a world title in 2006 to lifting the ICC Champions Trophy in 2017, every moment in Pakistan colours has been special. I am grateful to my teammates, coaches, family and the fans for their unwavering support throughout my career,” Sarfaraz said.

“Captaining Pakistan across all formats was a dream come true. I always tried to play fearless cricket and build a united team. Seeing players like Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, Hasan Ali and others grow into match-winners during my captaincy is one of my proudest achievements,” he continued.

READ ALSO | Pakistan Captain Salman Agha Receives Demerit Point After Run-Out Controversy

“I would like to thank the Pakistan Cricket Board for the trust they placed in me over the years. Pakistan cricket has always been very close to my heart and I will continue to support the game in every possible way,” the former skipper added.

Sarfaraz achieved his biggest success during the ICC Champions Trophy 2017. Pakistan defeated the Indian national cricket team in the final to win the title for the first time. He also guided Pakistan to the top position in the ICC T20I team rankings during his captaincy period.

Sarfaraz earlier led Pakistan to the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup 2006 title. His leadership has helped players like Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi and Hasan Ali develop into key performers for the national side.