Pakistan cricket team’s fast bowler Mohammad Amir has announced his retirement from Test cricket with immediate effect. The 27-year-old will, however, continue to play the limited-overs cricket. “It has been an honour to represent Pakistan in the pinnacle and traditional format of the game. I, however, have decided to move away from the longer version so I can concentrate on white-ball cricket,” Amir said in a statement.

“Playing for Pakistan remains my ultimate desire and objective, and I will try my best to be in the best physical shape to contribute in the team’s upcoming challenges, including next year’s ICC T20 World Cup,” the pacer added. Imam Ul Haq Accused Of Having Affairs With Multiple Women; Twitter User Leaks his WhatApp Chats.

Amir said that it was the right time to quit Test cricket as selectors can build a team with an eye on ICC World Test Championship. “It has not been an easy decision to make and I have been thinking about this for some time. But with the ICC World Test Championship commencing shortly, and Pakistan boasting some very exciting young fast bowlers, it is appropriate that I call on my time in Test cricket so that the selectors can plan accordingly,” he said.

“I want to thank all my team-mates as well the opponents in red ball cricket. It has been a privilege to play with and against them. I am sure our paths will continue to cross in limited-overs cricket as all of us play and compete with the same vigour and determination. Pakistan’s All-Rounder Abdul Razzaq Admits Having Extramarital Affairs With Multiple Women (Watch Video).

“I also want to thank the PCB for providing me the opportunity to don the golden star on my chest. And, I am grateful to my coaches who have groomed me at various stages of my career,” Amir said.

Amir made his Test debut 2009 against Sri Lanka. In 36 Test matches, the left-arm pacer took 119 wickets at an average of 30.47. Unfortunately, with bilateral cricket between India and Pakistan suspended, Amir has not played a Test against the traditional rivals.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 26, 2019 03:52 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).