Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi said Saturday that his retirement decision is final and he will not be taking the U-turn like other cricketers. Afridi, who announced retirement from international cricket following a row with the PCB and team management over interference in selection matters, his decision was final and he would not reverse his decision.
Incidentally, the PCB-Afridi tiff led the former captain to the court and severe pressure built on the PCB from different quarters to resolve the issue. During the course of time, Afridi was called in by his county Hampshire for the cricket season but his suspension from the PCB blocked his way. He had also stated that he would not compromise out of court but the very next day he met PCB chairman through political connections.
However, after intervention of the government officials a meeting of PCB chairman and Afridi was arranged that was followed by disciplinary committee hearing which fined Afridi Rs 4.5 million for breach of code of conduct but he escaped ban for igniting Karachi-Punjab divide, all due to political pressure of the PCB. And now he has made a pledge not to return to international cricket. He said after the English season he would play in the Sri Lanka Cricket League and will play Pakistan domestic cricket.
He will leave for England on June 22 to appear in T20 League for Hampshire county. He said: I will play SL Premier League after county cricket and play domestic cricket if available.” Meanwhile, a press release from Hampshire stated: ‘Hampshire Cricket is delighted to confirm the club has received a formal no objection certificate which allows Friends Life t20 overseas signing, Shahid Afridi, to take part in the rest of the tournament.
“The Pakistani all-rounder will be available for the Royals’ T20 clash at Chelmsford against the Essex Eagles on Thursday.”
Cork was delighted at the news of Afridi’s arrival, with another quality player to call upon. But it makes competition for places even more intense. The Hampshire captain said: ‘It’s massive. He’s a world class international player and he will make a difference. All the guys are looking forward to it. It’s a great boost for us and it pushes other players to perform.”
Afridi insists no retirement U-turn this time
