India’s one of the leading pace men Zaheer Khan announced his retirement from international cricket on Thursday (October 15). “As I was training for the upcoming season, it dawned on me that my shoulder may not last the rigours of bowling nearly 18 overs a day and that’s when I knew it was time,” declared Zaheer in a statement.
Zaheer, 37, said he will continue playing domestic cricket for one season before calling it quits from all forms at the end of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2016. “I look forward to signing off my last season in domestic cricket at the conclusion of IPL season 9.”
Zaheer made his Test debut against Bangladesh in 2000 and ODI debut against Kenya during the ICC KnockOut Trophy in the same year. Zaheer has taken 311 wickets in 92 Tests at an average of just over 32 runs per wicket. He has taken 282 ODI wickets at an average of just over 29 runs per wicket taking 4 wickets in a match 6 times.
Zaheer’s international wickets tally will close with 610 international scalps in 309 games between 2000 and 2014, behind only Anil Kumble (956), Harbhajan (706) and Kapil Dev (687).
Here is few cricketers’ reaction on Twitter about Zaheer Khan’s retirement:
MS Dhoni: Well done ZAK on a fantastic career.without U it wd hve been very difficult to achieve what the ICT did.most clever fast bowler I know. Life has just started now, U still can and definitely will contribute a lot to Indian Cricket.wish U all the success.
Harsha Bhogle: Zaheer Khan to announce his retirement from international cricket. Was imminent but his contribution to Indian cricket isn’t over. When you have a relaxed conversation with @ImZaheer you realise what a shrewd and intelligent cricketer he was. Wish him well.
VVS Laxman: I am sure @ImZaheer will continue to contribute to Ind cricket especially in the development of young fast bowlers.#LEGEND
Sachin Tendulkar: One of the coolest pace bowlers I know. He was a bowler who could ‘out think’ the batsman most of the times. Always up for a challenge . I am sure he will do well as he begins a new chapter in his life. Wishing @ImZaheer all success in his retired life.