Pakistan’s cricket fraternity bids farewell to a seasoned warrior as fast bowler Wahab Riaz draws the curtain on his illustrious international career. With a remarkable journey spanning 15 years, Wahab’s decision to retire from the international arena marks the end of an era. However, his cricketing journey is far from over, as he sets his sights on continued participation in franchise cricket.
The legacy Wahab leaves behind is etched across formats, with a total of 27 Test matches, 91 ODIs, and 36 T20Is donning the green jersey of Pakistan. His last appearance for the national team was in 2020, bringing a chapter of his cricketing story to a close. Wahab’s prowess as a bowler was evident in his remarkable record, claiming 83 wickets in Test cricket with an average of 34.50. In the ODI format, he secured 120 wickets at an average of 34.30, while his performance in T20Is saw him amass 34 wickets with an average of 28.55. Notably, he contributed his skills to the Peshawar Zalmi squad during PSL 2023, showcasing his ongoing commitment to the sport.
Stepping beyond the realm of cricket, Wahab Riaz ventured into the political arena in recent times. The dawn of the new year saw him assume the role of the caretaker sports minister for the Punjab province. This multidimensional journey exemplifies his ability to transcend boundaries and embrace diverse roles.
In his official statement, Wahab expressed his reflections on this significant decision, saying, “For the past two years, I’ve been contemplating my retirement plans. The year 2023 has always been the target for bidding adieu to international cricket, and now, more than ever, I’m at peace with my decision. I believe I’ve dedicated myself to the service of my country and its national team to the best of my ability. Representing Pakistan on the international stage has been an honor and a privilege.”
As one chapter concludes, another beckons for Wahab Riaz. Embracing the next phase of his journey, he eagerly anticipates his involvement in franchise cricket. This new adventure promises to deliver riveting performances, entertaining audiences, and inspiring the world with his skills, all while engaging in fierce competition against some of the finest talents globally. The cricketing world salutes Wahab’s contribution and eagerly anticipates the exciting chapters that lie ahead in his cricketing narrative.
