Azhar Ali announces retirement from limited-overs cricket

Top-order batsman says he was under no pressure to take this decision

Pakistan top-order batsman Azhar Ali has announced his retirement from limited-overs cricket during a press conference at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.

“No hard feelings, it is totally my personal decision as I just want to focus on Test cricket only,” he said. “I made this decision for the betterment of my career. I never played T20 cricket, so it makes sense to hang my boots in the shorter formats of the game.”

He added: “I feel honoured that I represented the country in 53 ODIs —31 as captain— and I have some fond memories of leading some incredibly talented players. I am fully committed to Test cricket and would want to serve the country for as long as I can maintain my form and fitness. I would continue to play Domestic One Day and T20 matches."

Ali also brushed aside the notion that he was unhappy with the selection committee.

“I have no regrets as I have given my full effort,” he said. “I have no issue about selection in the shorter formats.”

Ali also backed current Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed stating:  “We all have to support Sarfraz because he is leading the side in great fashion.”

Ali also said that Pakistan have some great young talent in the side and was confident that the team is in good shape ahead of the 2019 World Cup.

“As a former ODI captain I wish the team the very best for what is an incredibly important season ahead of the World Cup next June. There are some talented young batsmen who are part of the set-up now and I am supremely confident that they will serve Pakistan cricket with distinction,” he said.