Time for next generation to take baton: Amir re-retires from int'l cricket

Pakistani fast bowler Mohammad Amir on Thursday announced his decision to retire from international cricket.

Taking to his X account, Amir said: "After careful consideration, I have taken the difficult decision to retire from international cricket".

The left-arm pacer in March had taken back his retirement — announced back in 2020 — following positive discussions with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

He then went on to become part of Pakistan's 15-member squad for the T20 World Cup 2024 in the United States and West Indies — also his final appearance for the national side.

The 32-year-old made his international debut in June 2009 and played 36 Tests, 61 ODIs, and 62 T20Is for Pakistan.

During his career, he claimed 271 international wickets and scored 1,179 runs across formats. and was part of the T20 World Cup 2009 winning squad as well as the Champions Trophy winning team.

Expanding on his decision in the statement today, Amir said: "These decisions are never easy but are inevitable. I feel this is the right time for the next generation to take the baton and elevate Pakistan's cricket to new heights!"

"Representing my country has been and always will be the greatest honour of my life," he added while thanking the PCB, his family, friends and fans.

A day earlier, all-rounder Imad Wasim who had taken back his retirement in the same month as Amir, had announced to bid farewell to international cricket.

"After much thought and reflection, I have decided to retire from international cricket," he said in a social media post.

"While this chapter comes to an end, I look forward to continuing my journey in cricket through domestic and franchise cricket, and I hope to keep entertaining you all in new ways," he added.

The all-rounder — part of the Champions Trophy 2017 winning squad — had previously announced retirement from the game in November 2023.

The 34-year-old Imad made his international debut in May 2015 against Zimbabwe and went on to represent Pakistan in 55 ODIs and 75 T20Is. He took 117 wickets and scored 1,540 runs in his international career.