Pakistan’s spearhead Mohammad Amir says goodbye to Test cricket

Pakistan's fast bowling spearhead Mohammad Amir announced retirement from Test cricket on Friday with immediate effect.

The fast bowler would, however, be available for his side in the limited overs cricket. “It has been an honour to represent Pakistan in the pinnacle and traditional format of the game. I, however, have decided to move away from the longer version so I can concentrate on white ball cricket,” Amir said in a statement.

The fast bowler, who was the integral part of Pakistan’s World Cup squad, said that he wants to maintain his fitness for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2020. “Playing for Pakistan remains my ultimate desire and objective and I will try my best to be in the best physical shape to contribute in the team’s upcoming challenges, including next year’s ICC T20 World Cup," he said.

“It has not been an easy decision to make and I have been thinking about this for some time. But with the ICC World Test Championship commencing shortly and Pakistan boasting some very exciting young fast bowlers, it is appropriate that I call on my time in Test cricket so that the selectors can plan accordingly," he added.

“I want to thank all my team-mates as well the opponents in red ball cricket. It has been a privilege to play with and against them…. I also want to thank the PCB for providing me the opportunity to don the golden star on my chest. And, I am grateful to my coaches who have groomed me at various stages of my career,” the bowler said.

Thank you PCB, our PM @ImranKhanPTI @wasimakramlive bhi @SAfridiOfficial bhi @waqyounis99 & @yousaf1788. Thank you and my fans for always supporting me and I hope you all will support my this decision also.see video link https://t.co/BbAYzPbncl

— Mohammad Amir (@iamamirofficial) July 26, 2019

Amir made his Test debut against Sri Lanka in Galle in July 2009, he featured in 36 Tests, taking 119 wickets at an average of 30.47. His best bowling returns - six for 44 – were against the West Indies in Kingston in April 2017.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) applauded Amir for his contribution towards Pakistan’s Test team and admired the speedster determination and skills.

“Amir has been one of the most exciting and talented left-arm fast bowlers in Test cricket in recent times. He overcame adversity as a young cricketer and came back stronger not only as a cricketer but also as a better human being. His skill, on the field, and his personality will be missed in the dressing room in the longer format,” stated PCB Managing Director Wasim Khan.