Pakistan veteran Azhar Ali has announced his retirement from ODI cricket at a press conference in Lahore on Thursday.
The 33-year-old has decided not to continue playing in the 50-over format to allow youngsters from Pakistan to get their chance.
The right-handed opener’s last appearance for Pakistan in the one-day format came at the start of the year in the away series to New Zealand.
He also played an important role in Pakistan’s ICC Champions Trophy triumph in England last year with a total of 228 runs including a half-century against India in the final.
Overall, Azhar has played a total of 53 ODIs for his country, scoring 1,845 runs at an average of 36.90 with the help of three tons and 12 half-centuries.
“I haven’t taken this decision suddenly. I have been thinking about it. It’s the right time to focus on Tests. There have been terrific players in one-dayers in the Pakistan set-up. I want to concentrate on Tests with the same fitness and energy that I have been,” he said.
“I didn’t decide to retire after any hard feelings, it’s my personal decision. I want to focus on Tests with full energy and improve my career record there. I don’t have any regrets because I always gave my best.
“As a former captain, I wish the team the very best for an important season ahead before the World Cup next year. I fully support Sarfraz (Ahmed). He has been leading them very well.”
Azhar remains an integral part of Pakistan’s Test set-up where he is the established opening batsman.
