Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez insisted he has not given up hopes of a comeback after rumours of imminent retirement.
Hafeez’s career received a setback on Tuesday as he was excluded from the squad for the Asia Cup in the UAE.
Pakistan went in for young opening batsman Shan Masood after the 37-year-old Hafeez didn’t get to play a single match in the five-ODI series against Zimbabwe.
Pakistan chief selector Inzamam-ul-Haq said Hafeez remains part of Pakistan’s World Cup plans. “Hafeez is a part of the 20-22 players that we are considering for the World Cup. Hafeez is a good player and now he can bowl as well (after the ICC cleared his action). But, we have other options now,” Inzamam said.
Hafeez called a press conference in Lahore on Wednesday with many expecting a rant against the management or even his retirement announcement. But according to various reports from Pakistan, Hafeez received a call from the Pakistan board assuring him that he was still part of the team’s plans.
Rumours about retirement are all False, I am a fighter and wants to play for Pakistan again in future, says Mohammad Hafeez@MHafeez22 @DennisCricket_ #Pakistan #Cricket #PCB #Hafeez pic.twitter.com/zSvbWbGydD
— Najeeb ul Hasnain (@get2najeeb) September 5, 2018
Hafeez went ahead with another presser in the evening, where he denied all rumours of his retirement.
“Whatever decision the stakeholders of Pakistan cricket take, I am with them. All rumours (about retirement) surrounding me are not true. I am available for Pakistan cricket,” Hafeez said.
“I am a fighter and will fight this scenario. I will play Qaid-e-Azam trophy and try to put in performances. selection is not in my hand,” he added.
Thanks to all ex cricketers & well wishers of Pakistan cricket to give me strength in tough time , #RESPECT❤️ , I m a FIGHTER & wil keep fighting 👍🏼, GOOD LUCK to team Pakistan in ASIA CUP 2018 , make us proud 🤲🏼 , Pakistan Zindabad 🤲🏼
— Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) September 5, 2018