Mohammad Hafeez retires from international cricket

Hafeez, who made his international debut in 2003 in an ODI against Zimbabwe, featured in 392 internationals for Pakistan, scoring 12,780 runs and taking 253 wickets. His last international game was the ICC Men's T20 World Cup semi-final in November 2021.

Earlier, Hafeez had retired from Test cricket in 2018 and not played in an ODI since ICC Men's Cricket World Cup in 2019. He, however, has expressed his desire to continue playing T20 franchise cricket.

"Today I say good-bye to international cricket with pride and satisfaction. In fact, I have earned and accomplished more than I had initially envisaged and for that, I am thankful to all my fellow cricketers, captains, support staff and the Pakistan Cricket Board who helped me out during my career," Hafeez said.

“And, of course, my family who made big sacrifices to ensure I achieved my aspirations of representing Pakistan at a global stage.

“I am extremely fortunate, lucky and proud to have been considered worthy of donning the national kit with Pakistan emblem for 18 years. My country and my team have always been at my forefront and therefore, every time I stepped on to the field, I tried to raise their profile and image by playing hard and tough but within the rich traditions of spirit of cricket."

Hafeez was a part of the Pakistan team, which won the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy and represented his country in three 50-over (2007, 2011 and 2019), six T20 World Cups (2007, 2010, 2012, 2014, 2016 and 2021).

“When you have a professional career as long as mine, you’re bound to have your share of highs and lows, and I was no different. Results apart, I can say with conviction that I had more highs as I had the privilege of playing with and against some of the finest exponents of the bat and the ball of my era," he added.

“While cricket has been a great learning school for me, this great sport has provided me opportunities to visit various countries, explore their cultures and make friends. These are lifelong memories, which I will cherish every day. I want to thank my fans and supporters for believing in my abilities and backing me throughout my career.”

PCB Chairman Ramiz Raja was all praise for the veteran all-rounder. "Hafeez has been a wholehearted cricketer who worked tirelessly at his game to have a long and fruitful career.

“He has worn the green blazer with pride for which we at the PCB are thankful. I wish him the best of luck for his future life and thank him again for his magnificent contribution to Pakistan cricket.”