Malik played 35 Tests, 287 ODIs and 111 T20 Internationals for the Pakistan National team and was part of several memorable wins for his country.
Shoaib Malik (Photo: Twitter/@cricketworldcup)
Veteran Pakistan batsman Shoaib Malik has announced his retirement from One Day International (ODI) Cricket. Malik was one of the last players who were active on the International circuit among the players who made their debut in the 20th century.
The only other player who made his debut in the 20th century and was also part of the ongoing mega tournament was Chris Gayle. This was his last World Cup too as he had announced his retirement post the India series in August.
Making his debut in October 1999, Malik’s ODI career lasted for two decades which saw several ups and downs.
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Malik played 35 Tests, 287 ODIs and 111 T20 Internationals for the Pakistan National team and was part of several memorable wins for his country.
He has 7534 runs to his credit in 50 overs cricket and another 158 wickets that he registered with his off-spin bowling.
“I am retiring from ODI cricket. I had made this decision a few years ago that I would retire after Pakistan’s last World Cup match,” Malik said at a press conference after Pakistan had defeated Bangladesh by 94 runs at Lord’s. However, a win by 94 runs was not enough on the day to help them reach the semi-finals.
“I am sad to be leaving a format I once loved but I am happy that I will now get to spend more time with my family. This will also allow me to focus on T20s,” he added.
Although he was not part of the Playing XI in Friday’s match, he was given the Guard of Honour by his teammates post the match.
The right-handed batsman and part-time spin bowler did not have a good World Cup outing this time around getting out for a couple of ducks in the three matches he was drafted into the side. He managed to pick a wicket against England.
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