Indian cricketer Yusuf Pathan on Friday announced his retirement from all forms of cricket. Pathan announced his retirement in a statement posted on Twitter.
The 38-year-old Pathan was part of the inaugural T20 World Cup-winning side in 2007 and also the one that triumphed in the 2011 ODI World Cup at home. He also featured in 22 T20Is where he made 236 at a strike-rate of 146.58 and was also a part of Kolkata Knight Riders' triumphs in the Indian Premier League. He last played for India in 2012.
"The time has come today for me to put a full stop to this innings of my life. I officially announce retirement from all forms of the game," he said in the statement.
In his statement, Pathan remembered the day when he first time wore the Indian jersey. He expressed his emotions in the heartfelt statement.
"I didn't only wear the jersey that day, but I took upon my family's, coach's, friend's the whole country's and my own expectations on my shoulders as well," he said.
Remembering the days of World Cup he stated, "Winning two World Cups for India and lifting Sachin Tendulkar on my shoulders were some of the best moments of my career."
I made my International debut under MS Dhoni, IPL debut under Shane Warne, Ranji debut under Jacob Martin, and would like to thank them for believing in me. I thank Gautam Gambhir with whom, at KKR, we won the IPL trophy twice. I would also like to thank my brother and backbone Irfan Khan who was always there for me during the highs and lows of my career. Last but not the least, I would like to thank the BCCI and BCA for giving me the opportunity to play for my Country and State, the statement read.
The statement ended with a note: 'Nothing can keep me away from cricket and my passion for the sport will remain the same. I will continue to entertain everyone even in future.'
He had been going unsold in the past two IPL players' auctions.
Earlier today, Veteran Karnataka medium pacer R Vinay Kumar also announced his retirement from international and first-class cricket.
(With PTI Inputs)