Former United Arab Emirates skipper Ahmed Raza has announced his retirement from international cricket.
Raza was UAE’s most successful skipper in the limited overs format. The side won 14 out of 29 ODIs and 18 out of 27 T20Is under his leadership.
The left-arm spinner took 64 ODI wickets at an average of 30.06 and an economy rate of 4.12. In T20Is, he had 37 wickets at an average of 31.83 and an economy rate of 6.61.
The 34-year-old took to social media to announce his retirement, stating that it was the right time for him to move away from the game.
“It is with great pride that I’m announcing my retirement from all forms of cricket. After much thought, I believe this is the right time to step away from the game that has given me so much love and respect over the last 17 years.”
Raza marked leading his side in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022 as a special moment.
“Representing and leading my country in the great sport of cricket has been one of the greatest honors of mine,” Raza added. “ I must thank the Board, my colleagues, coaches, selectors and most importantly my late father, who supported and enabled me to live my dream to the fullest.
“Also, my mother, my siblings and my friends who were there through it all. Lastly and most importantly to my wife, Mehreen, who has been my biggest support system over the last few years.
“It’s hard to pinpoint a moment over the course of 17 years, however, leading the UAE to the T20 World Cup will always be a significant achievement of mine.
“Whilst there are many that supported me throughout my career – I would like to say a special thank you to Aqib Javed, who contributed greatly to my success and turned a rookie into a thorough professional. I am looking forward to what the future holds.”
Post-retirement, Raza will join the UAE support staff in the role of an assistant coach.
