After Imad-Amir, Irfan bids farewell to international cricket

Pakistan cricket witnessed a significant shift as Mohammad Irfan, the nation’s tallest pacer, announced his retirement from international cricket.

Irfan became the third Pakistani cricketer in just 36 hours to call time on his international career, following Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim.

The 42-year-old took to the social media platform ‘X’ and expressed his gratitude for his career and love for the game.

“I have decided to retire from international cricket. I want to express my deepest gratitude to my teammates and coaches. Thank you for the love, the cheers, and the unforgettable memories. I will continue to support and celebrate the game that has given me everything. Pakistan Zindabad,” Irfan wrote.

The tall left-arm pacer represented Pakistan in 4 Test matches, 60 ODIs, and 22 T20Is.

He claimed 10 wickets in Tests, 83 in ODIs, and 16 in T20Is, earning recognition for his imposing height and bounce.

His last international appearance was over five years ago, but he remained active in domestic cricket, recently featuring for Khan Research Laboratories in the President’s Cup, a Pakistani List A competition.

Irfan’s announcement follows Mohammad Amir’s retirement, which was declared just a day earlier.

The left-arm pacer, who represented Pakistan in all three formats, thanked fans, teammates, and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in his farewell statement.

“It has been a great honor to play for Pakistan across all three formats. I know this is a difficult decision, but I feel this is the right time for the next generation to take the baton and elevate Pakistan cricket to new heights,” Amir said.

The wave of retirements began with all-rounder Imad Wasim, who announced his decision via social media.

Imad, who had been absent from the international scene since the T20 World Cup, expressed pride in his career while bidding farewell.