Afridi calls  it a day

KARACHI — Former Pakistan one-day captain Shahid Afridi has announced retirement from international cricket. “The all-rounder, who is currently with his ailing father in United States, has taken this extreme decision due to the attitude of Pakistan Cricket Board chief Ejaz Butt,” Afridi’s family told Khaleej Times.

By Rehan Siddiqui

Published: Wed 1 Jun 2011, 1:39 AM

Last updated: Mon 6 Apr 2015, 6:35 PM

Afridi was sacked as one-day captain this month by the PCB and was replaced by batsman Misbah-ul-Haq who has led the Test side since last year.

Afridi’s removal came despite the fact he led Pakistan to the World Cup semi-finals and a 3-2 win over West Indies in a one-day series last month. The board gave no reason for the decision.

Afridi’s family in Karachi told Khaleej Times that he has decided to quit the game he loved most.

The game in Pakistan facing problems because international sides are staying away due to security reasons in the country. Afghanistan have played three one-day games against Pakistan A which were won by the hosts.

Afridi had some problems with coach Waqar Younis regarding the team selection on West Indies tour.

“Waqar interferes with the team selection and everyone should do his job,” Afridi said on his return from the West Indies earlier this month.

The PCB took notice of the statements made by Afridi in the media about the differences within the tour management in West Indies.

The media also reported that serious differences emerged between Afridi and Waqar during this year’s World Cup. Pakistan reached the semi-finals in the tournament, jointly hosted by India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, before being beaten by India who went on to win the championship.

Waqar, a former Test pacer, is reportedly at loggerheads with chief selector Mohsin Khan as well.

Mohsin has been hinting that Waqar overrules the squads picked by the national selection committee.

Afridi’s decision is another setback for Pakistan cricket. The PCB is doing nothing to prepare for next World Cup as it has made Misnah-ul-Haq as one-day captain. They are no plan to groom youngsters and talented players like Afridi are leaving the team. It is high time for the PCB to put their house in order and take some decisions which may help to boost the game in Pakistan.