India pacer Zaheer Khan
retires from International Cricket
Zaheer Khan, one of India's most successful fast bowlers, announced his
retirement from international cricket but says he
will continue playing in the upcoming ninth edition of Indian Premier League
(IPL).
"As I was training for the
upcoming season, it dawned on me that my shoulder may not last the rigours of
bowling nearly 18 overs a day, and that's when I knew it was time," Zaheer
said on his official Facebook page.
"With immediate effect I bid adieu to my career in
international cricket. I look forward to signing off my last season in domestic
cricket at the conclusion of the Indian Premier League season 9," he said.
Zaheer said being part of the 2011 World Cup winning team was
the most cherished moment of his career. "My greatest cricketing moment
was lifting the World Cup as part of Team India and creating history. We played
as a top team and being part of the journey of India as a top ODI side was very
fulfilling," he said.
Reacting on Zaheer's retirement, Sachin
Tendulkar tweeted about his achievement and said he had the ability to
'out-think' the batsman. "One of the coolest pace bowlers I know. I am
sure he will do well as he begins a new chapter in his life," he tweeted.
MS Dhoni also tweeted his praise on Zaheer and said that most of Team India's
achievements would have been difficult to achieve without his help.
In the end, Zaheer expressed his gratitude towards the game.
"Cricket has been my only life over the past two decades and is in fact
that the only thing I know well. Cricket has made me the individual I am,
giving me everything in life and much more. I walk away with fantastic
memories, life defining experiences and great friendships”,he said.
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