Pakistan star all-rounder Shahid Afridi received an emotional send-off in his final international assignment as the West Indies registered a 72-run win over the World XI at Lord’s in the Hurricane Relief Twenty20 Challenge.
Afridi was named captain of the World XI after Eoin Morgan pulled out due to a finger injury. The match was held to raise funds to help rebuild venues in the Caribbean damaged by Hurricanes Irma and Maria last year.
Afridi, who retired from international cricket two years ago, was given a guard of honour at Lord’s.
“That’s something I’ll never forget,” said the all-rounder called ‘Boom Boom’ by his fans.
“For that to happen at the home of cricket, it’s massive. The cause was everything tonight, and to have been able to help, it’s fantastic. Thanks to everyone who came out and supported this.”
During the match, Afridi was asked by commentator Nasser Hussain if there is any possibility of another comeback. The all-rounder, suffering from a persistent knee injury, said: “No that’s it. You can see my situation with the injury.”
Guard of honour for Shahid Afridi as he says farewell to international cricket #CricketRelief pic.twitter.com/Aog3X0aL85
— Saj Sadiq (@Saj_PakPassion) May 31, 2018
Afridi donated $20,000 to Hurricane Relief from his foundation, while all the players donated their match fees to the charity.
Nasser Hussain: Any plans of any more comeback?
— Uzair Afridian \O/ (@Uzairsiddiqui_8) May 31, 2018
Lala: No, u can see my condition 😂 pic.twitter.com/do7d6MjSJ8