Announcing retirement from international cricket after the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2020 scheduled in Australia, all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez Friday said that he is looking forward to contribute to the Pakistan cricket team as a batsmen in the upcoming Twenty20 International matches against Bangladesh.
Talking to media at the Patron's Enclosure of the Gaddafi Stadium, here today, Hafeez expressed joy over his selection for the Bangladesh T20Is and affirmed that he wants to play the World Cup-2020 on merit.
"My plan for the moment is to play World T20 matches and eventually exit from international cricket with a bang; that is my plan but let's see how it goes," he said, adding: "Playing for Pakistan is always an honor; I am looking forward to, in my humble capacity, to add value to this team."
Hafeez (39) said: "I will try to prove the selection committee's decision right regarding my comeback in the team by performing against Bangladesh. Winning always motivates the captain and the players. I am satisfied with my performance at the moment. I have been playing for Pakistan as a batsman for 17 years and am ready for another bowling test. I am planning to work with the youngsters."
It may be noted that Hafeez was dropped from the national squad following a disappointing performance in the 50-over ICC Cricket World Cup 2019. Hafeez had retired from Test cricket in 2018 and played his last match in the longer format against New Zealand at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. "As a sportsman, you have to deal with different scenarios which can take you in different directions. But I have always kept myself positive and have played all training matches with a positive attitude," Hafeez said, adding: "Playing in front of a home crowd is a big honor. We have been deprived of this honor for the past many, many years and had not had an opportunity to taste this unique thrill. I welcome the Bangladesh team to Pakistan and hope that cricket lovers will be drawn to the stadium and will grace us with their presence."
About skipper Babar Azam, the all-rounder said Babar is an outstanding player and a good human being. "It is very important that you share your experiences. I am not the type of person to intrude on another person's domain. But if everyone seeks my advice or guidance, I am available," he said.
Regarding his selection for the Pakistan Super League-2020, Hafeez said: "It is the franchises domain and they know better to whom they have to give this responsibility to. For me, being a part of the team is the most important thing. I will always want that whichever team I am playing for wins, and will do my best to contribute towards that. That is more important than any other thing."
Moreover, Pakistani squad for Bangladesh series held a training session at the Gaddafi Stadium.
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