Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir and all-rounder Imad Wasim have announced their retirement from international cricket.
Amir brought an end to his career with the national team for the second time.
The announcement, shared via a heartfelt note on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, has left fans disappointed, as many had hoped for a potential return.
In his post, Amir stated: "After careful consideration, I have taken the difficult decision to retire from international cricket. These decisions are never easy but are inevitable. I feel this is the right time for the next generation to take the baton and elevate Pakistan Cricket to new heights."
He continued: "Representing my country has been and always will be the greatest honour of my life. I would sincerely like to thank the PCB, my family and friends and, above all, my fans for their continuous love and support."
Amir, 32, first announced his retirement in 2020 at the age of 28, citing differences with the team management at the time. However, he made a return earlier this year alongside fellow cricketer Wasim, both declaring themselves available for the ICC T20 World Cup 2024.
While Wasim's performance in the tournament was below expectations, Amir was one of Pakistan's standout performers, taking seven wickets in four matches at an average of 10.28. Despite their efforts, Pakistan's campaign ended in disappointment, as they were knocked out in the group stage.
Amir made his debut for Pakistan at the age of 17 during the 2009 ICC T20 World Cup, playing a crucial role in his team's victory. Over the course of his career, he represented Pakistan in 36 Tests, 61 ODIs, and 62 T20Is, claiming 271 wickets and contributing 1,179 runs across formats. He was also part of the team that won the ICC Champions Trophy in 2017 under the leadership of Sarfaraz Ahmed.
Meanwhile, in his statement to the PCB, Wasim said: "It has been a great journey representing my country and the fulfilment of a huge dream. I would like to thank the fans for supporting me and the team throughout these years.
"I would also like to thank the PCB for all their support at each step and I wish great success to the national team and look forward to supporting Pakistan cricket from the other side of the ground."
Like Amir, Imad had also announced retirement in 2023 but reversed the decision after Pakistan sought their services for the T20 World Cup in June 2024.
PCB reacts
Both players were not considered for Pakistan's white-ball assignments after the T20 World Cup, which resulted in them stepping away from international cricket.
The PCB released a statement, thanking both players for their services and wishing them well in their future endeavours.
"All-rounder Imad Wasim and left-arm fast bowler Mohammad Amir have announced their retirements from international cricket. Both players last featured for Pakistan in this year's ICC T20 World Cup held in the USA and West Indies," the PCB said in a statement.
"On behalf of the PCB, I extend sincere gratitude to Amir and Imad for their services to Pakistan cricket and wish them the very best in their future endeavours," PCB Chief Operating Officer Sumair Ahmad stated.
We have an inexperienced T20 side: Rizwan
Pakistan's white-ball captain Mohammad Rizwan attributed their seven-wicket defeat against South Africa in the second T20I of the three-match series to the team's inexperience.
Speaking at the post-match presentation, Rizwan praised Saim Ayub for his exceptional performance but highlighted key moments that swung the game in the Proteas' favor.
"Saim Ayub was exceptional, but after 10 overs, we lost our way. The middle order is a work in progress. We have an inexperienced side. We were aiming for 220-plus, but their bowlers delivered brilliantly in the last four overs," said Rizwan.
The skipper also praised Irfan Niazi, who showcased his potential as a power hitter.
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