Sarfaraz Ahmed clarifies stance on retirement rumours

The cricketer says his decision to retire will be personal, dispelling rumours about his future in cricket.

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Former Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed has clarified his position on retirement from international cricket, dismissing speculations stirred by his recent comments.

The 37-year-old wicketkeeper-batter, a key figure in Pakistan cricket’s history, reaffirmed his commitment to the game, saying the decision to quit would be a deeply personal one.

Speaking to a local news channel, Sarfaraz said he remains active in cricket and is willing to accept any opportunity to represent Pakistan again.

“Yes, I said ‘nothing is left to say’ the other day. Look, I am still playing cricket and will avail whatever opportunity I would get,” he explained.

The speculation began last week when Sarfaraz, during a media interaction at the Champions T20 Cup, responded cryptically when asked about his future.

“I know what you are waiting for, and it will happen soon,” he had said, leading to widespread rumours about his retirement.

In his recent clarification, the wicketkeeper-batter emphasised his willingness to contribute to the national team in any capacity. “I’ve never demanded, ‘I want to bat here or there.’ If I could be selected [in the national team], I would be,” he said.

“As far as leaving cricket is concerned, that is my personal decision. When I feel that I should quit cricket, I will quit,” Sarfaraz added.

Sarfaraz Ahmed made his international debut for Pakistan in 2007 and has since become a prominent figure in the country’s cricketing history.

He has represented Pakistan in 54 Tests, 117 ODIs, and 61 T20Is, amassing a total of 6,164 runs, including six centuries and 32 half-centuries. His leadership brought Pakistan its first ICC Champions Trophy in 2017 with a memorable 180-run victory over India in the final.

Sarfaraz also holds the record for leading Pakistan to 11 consecutive T20I series wins, a feat unmatched by any other Pakistan captain.

However, his absence from the national team has been notable. His last Test appearance was in Australia in 2023, where he managed only seven runs before being dropped. His last white-ball match dates back to November 2021.

Currently, Sarfaraz is mentoring the Dolphins in the Champions T20 Cup, offering guidance to younger players and staying connected with the sport.

Despite being sidelined, Sarfaraz remains open to returning to the national side and contributing where needed. For now, the Champions Trophy-winning captain has made it clear: the decision to retire will be on his own terms.