Imad Wasim, Mohammad Amir announce retirement from International Cricket months after Pakistan return

Pakistan all-rounder Imad Wasim and left-arm fast bowler Mohammad Amir have officially announced their retirements from international cricket, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed on Saturday (December 14).

Both players last represented Pakistan in the ICC T20 World Cup held earlier this year in the USA and West Indies.

Imad and Amir, the duo who announced retirement from international cricket a year ago, decided to come out of their retirement as they represented Pakistan in the T20 World Cup. But after the disastrous campaign for Pakistan, the duo have again announced their formal retirement from international cricket.

Imad Wasim

The 35-year-old Imad Wasim made his international debut in May 2015 in a home series against Zimbabwe. Over the course of his career, Imad played 55 One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and 75 T20 Internationals (T20Is), amassing 117 wickets and scoring 1,540 runs across 130 matches. Known for his consistent performances as an all-rounder, Imad was a crucial part of Pakistan's success in limited-overs cricket.

"It has been a great journey representing my country and the fulfilment of a huge dream. I would like to thank the fans for supporting me and the team throughout these years.

"I would also like to thank the PCB for all their support at each step and I wish great success to the national team and look forward to supporting Pakistan cricket from the other side of the ground," Imad said after retirement.

Mohammad Amir

Mohammad Amir, 32, began his international career in June 2009 and quickly rose to prominence as one of the most gifted left-arm fast bowlers in world cricket. Amir's international career spanned across 36 Tests, 61 ODIs, and 62 T20Is, during which he took 271 wickets and contributed 1,179 runs with the bat.

Amir was part of Pakistan's victorious ICC T20 World Cup 2009 squad and played a significant role in the team's memorable ICC Champions Trophy triumph in 2017. His ability to swing the ball at pace and deliver in high-pressure situations earned him accolades from fans and critics alike. After his fixing controversy, Amir was also banned from cricket for an extended period.

"It has been a great honour 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. I would like to thank the PCB for always extending the much-needed support over the years and I look forward to watching the team excel. I would also like to thank Pakistan fans for always supporting me throughout my career," Amir was quoted as saying by PCB.

PCB has acknowledged the immense contributions of the two players. PCB Chief Operating Officer Sumair Ahmad Syed stated, "On behalf of the PCB, I extend sincere gratitude to Amir and Imad for their services to Pakistan cricket and wish them the very best in their future endeavours."