by: Atika Mehboob TN Sport Pakistan:
After leading his team to victory in the National T20 Cup, Asad Shafiq has officially announced his retirement from cricket. Gratefully acknowledging the support he received throughout his career, Shafiq expressed deep gratitude to those who stood by him.
Following the final of the National T20 Cup, Asad Shafiq received a well-deserved guard of honor from his Karachi Whites teammates, marking the conclusion of a distinguished career.
Reflecting on his time representing Pakistan in all three formats, he considered himself fortunate and emphasized the significance of donning the Test cap for his country. Recalling pivotal moments, Shafiq mentioned the pride of being part of the number one Test team and participating in a World Cup semi-final.
Shafiq, who had pre-determined that this season would be his last, spoke about his enduring love for cricket but acknowledged that with age, the passion wanes. He clarified that the decision was made before the season commenced, with no specific moment of disappointment triggering it. Before hanging up his boots, he will play three games in the Patrons Trophy for SNGPL.
While the PCB has proposed appointing Shafiq as a consultant to chief selector Wahab Riaz, the Karachi-born cricketer revealed that he has not yet signed the contract for this new responsibility.
His retirement marks the end of an illustrious career that spanned 77 Tests, 60 ODIs, and 10 T20 Internationals.
