Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir retires from Test cricket

Pakistan pace ace, Mohammad Amir, has announced retirement from Test cricket. The 27-year-old Amir, however, will continue to play in the shorter format of the game.

Mohammad Amir had a successful outing in the World Cup.

Pakistan pace ace, Mohammad Amir, has announced retirement from Test cricket with immediate effect. The 27-year-old Amir, however, will continue to play in the shorter format of the game.

Amir, who featured in 36 Tests for Pakistan, on Friday, admitted that he wants to focus on "white ball cricket."

"It has been an honour to represent Pakistan in the pinnacle and traditional format of the game," Amir was quoted as saying by the Pakistan Cricket Board website. "I, however, have decided to move away from the longer version so I can concentrate on white ball cricket," Amir said.

"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," he said.

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“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.

“I want to thank all my teammates 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.

“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.”

PCB Managing Director Wasim Khan described Amir as "one of the most exciting and talented left-arm fast bowlers in Test cricket in recent times".

"He overcame adversity as a young cricketer and came back stronger not only as a cricketer but also as a better human being. His skill, on the field, and his personality will be missed in the dressing room in the longer format," Khan added.

“However, we respect his decision and look forward to him continuing to play an integral role in white ball cricket for Pakistan.”