Press Trust of India
Mumbai, Oct 15: His body ravaged by injuries, Zaheer Khan, one of India’s greatest fast bowlers, bid adieu to international cricket Thursday, admitting that he could no longer handle the rigours of the game.
“As I was training for the upcoming season, it dawned on me that my shoulder may not last the rigours of bowling nearly 18 overs a day, and that’s when I knew it was time,” Zaheer said in an elaborate statement released here.
“With immediate effect I bid adieu to my career in international cricket. I look forward to signing off my last season in domestic cricket at the conclusion of IPL-IX,” he added. The 37-year-old left-arm pacer, has been in and out of the team in the last three to four years due to recurrent injuries which took a toll on his body.
“The toughest call in a cricketing career is when one has to walk away from the game itself. You almost will yourself and want to push that few, extra miles but then the body, after nearly two decades, decides not to respond,” Zaheer pointed out.
The fast bowler also called the ‘Sultan of Swing’ said being part of the 2011 World Cup winning team was the most cherished moment of his career. “My greatest cricketing moment was lifting the World Cup as part of Team India and creating history. It was very fulfilling,” stated Zaheer. “Also to become the No. 1 Test playing nation during my career is a moment that I will forever cherish.”
The affable bowler said he would try and give back to the game although he hasn’t yet decided how. ‘Zak is bak’ is perhaps a headline that may come my way again as I have every intention of giving back to this game and our wonderful country which gave this kid from Shrirampur the opportunity to chase and live his dream,” he said.
Zaheer thanked his family, teammates and fans for helping him strive to be a better cricketer. “My colleagues, who I shared dressing room pranks, have over the years become some of my closest friends. It has been a pleasure to play alongside them as each added a different perspective. I have enjoyed listening to them as also contributing in a small way to their growth,” he said. “In fact, I have a lot of people to thank, including my parents. I can’t name each and everyone, but I will always be grateful to those who have contributed to the development of my career,” he added.
