Former Pakistan captain Azhar Ali, who represented Pakistan in 53 ODIs Thursday announced his retirement from ODI cricket, in order to prolong his Test career. "It is not a decision that I have taken suddenly; I had been considering this for quite some time," the 33-year-old Azhar Ali told media in a press conference, here at Qadhafi Stadium. "I think the time is right for me to focus on Test cricket. This is my personal decision for the betterment of my career," Azhar said.
The former skipper, who scored 1,845 runs at an average of 36.9, including three centuries and 12 half-centuries, said that all his focus would be on Test cricket now and that he will try to give his best. "No hard feelings, it is totally my personal decision as I just want to focus on Test cricket only," he said, adding: "I made this decision for the betterment of my career. I never played T20 cricket, so it makes sense to hang my boots in the shorter formats of the game."
He further said, "I feel honoured that I represented the country in 53 ODIs -31 as captain- and I have some fond memories of leading some incredibly talented players. I am fully committed to Test cricket and would want to serve the country for as long as I can maintain my form and fitness. I would continue to play Domestic One Day and T20 matches."
He also brushed aside the notion that he was unhappy with the selection committee. "I have no regrets as I have given my full effort. I have no issue about selection in the shorter formats," he added.
The former skipper also backed current Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed saying "We all have to support Sarfraz because he is leading the side in great fashion. Sarfraz is doing a brilliant job. He is handling everything very well. The team has gelled very well under him."
To a query, Azhar said that Pakistan have some great young talent in the side and was confident that the team is in good shape ahead of the 2019 World Cup. "As a former ODI captain I wish the team the very best for what is an incredibly important season ahead of the World Cup next June. There are some talented young batsmen who are part of the set-up now and I am supremely confident that they will serve Pakistan cricket with distinction," he said.
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