LAHORE: In a bittersweet moment for cricket enthusiasts across Pakistan, left-arm fast bowler Wahab Riaz announced his retirement from international cricket here on Wednesday.
Addressing a press conference, Wahab expressed deep gratitude towards the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), his family, fellow teammates, and the steadfast fans who supported him through thick and thin.
While bidding adieu to international cricket, he affirmed his commitment to continue showcasing his skills in league cricket, promising to remain a force to be reckoned with.
Wahab’s journey
Wahab’s journey in the world of cricket has been undeniably remarkable. His rapid rise was propelled by Pakistan’s perennial struggles with fast bowling talents being hampered by injuries and absences. Capitalizing on opportunities when icons like Shoaib Akhtar and Mohammad Asif faced setbacks, and Umar Gul battled with his own injury issues, Wahab seized the opportunity to don the national colours at an early stage in his career.
His debut on the grand cricket stage against England at The Oval in 2010 turned heads immediately, thanks to his exceptional speed and determination. His outstanding performance, securing 5 wickets for a mere 63 runs, solidified his name among the exclusive group of Pakistani bowlers who achieved a five-wicket haul during their debut match. His victims included well-known players such as Andrew Strauss, Jonathan Trott, and Kevin Pietersen, showcasing his ability to dismiss some of the game’s finest talents.
However, his journey ahead wasn’t without challenges. Wahab faced a series of ups and downs during tours to New Zealand and the West Indies in 2011, leading to his temporary exclusion from the Test squad. As an ODI specialist, he balanced on a tightrope between being a wicket-taking asset and a bowler who occasionally conceded runs.
One of his defining moments came during the 2011 World Cup semi-final against India, where he single-handedly altered the course of the game with an impressive 5-wicket haul. Among his scalps were prominent batsmen like Virender Sehwag, Virat Kohli, Yuvraj Singh, and MS Dhoni. Sadly, his heroic endeavours fell short of steering Pakistan to victory.
Throughout his international career, Wahab remained a pivotal figure in Pakistan’s ODI setup, despite concerns surrounding his economy rate. Despite the ups and downs, his unwavering passion for the sport and his unwavering commitment to the team stood as testaments to his character.
