Lahore, July 26, 2019: Mohammad Amir on Friday announced his retirement from Test cricket with immediate effect, but reaffirmed his commitment to playing white-ball cricket for Pakistan.
In a statement, Amir said that it has been an honour to represent Pakistan in the pinnacle and traditional format of the game.
“I, however, have decided to move away from the longer version so I can concentrate on white-ball cricket”, he added.
He said that playing for Pakistan remains my ultimate desire and objective, and will try my best to be in the best physical shape to contribute in the team’s upcoming challenges, including next year’s ICC T20 World Cup.
“It has not been an easy decision to make and I have been thinking about this for some time. But with the ICC World Test Championship commencing shortly, and Pakistan boasting some very exciting young fast bowlers, it is appropriate that I call on my time in Test cricket so that the selectors can plan accordingly”, Amir said.
He has thanked all team-mates as well the opponents in red-ball cricket as it has been a privilege to play with and against them.
“I am sure our paths will continue to cross in limited-overs cricket as all of us play and compete with the same vigour and determination”, he added.
Amir also thanked the PCB for providing him with the opportunity to do the golden star on his chest.
“And, I am grateful to my coaches who have groomed me at various stages of my career”, he said.
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commenting on his retirement, PCB Managing Director Wasim Khan said that Amir has been one of the most exciting and talented left-arm fast bowlers in Test cricket in recent times.
He overcame adversity as a young cricketer and came back stronger not only as a cricketer but also as a better human being, khan said.
Amir skill, on the field, and his personality will be missed in the dressing room in the longer format.
“However, we respect his decision and look forward to him continuing to play an integral role in white-ball cricket for Pakistan”, he said.
Amir made his Test debut against Sri Lanka in Galle on July 2009, he featured in 36 Tests, taking 119 wickets at an average of 30.47. His best bowling returns – six for 44 – were against the West Indies in Kingston on April 2017.
