Usman Qadir, Pakistan’s leg-spinner, has officially announced his retirement from international cricket, marking the end of a noteworthy career that spanned several years. The 31-year-old cricketer, who represented Pakistan in 25 T20 Internationals and one One-Day International, shared this heartfelt decision on social media, expressing immense gratitude for the opportunity to don the national jersey.
As the son of the legendary Abdul Qadir, Usman reflected on his cricketing journey and the challenges he faced along the way. In his retirement announcement, he acknowledged the vital role played by his coaches, teammates, and fans who supported him throughout his career. “It has been a tremendous honor to represent my country,” he wrote, highlighting the pride and joy he felt while contributing to the team.
However, his journey was not without difficulties. Qadir faced frustrations regarding his inconsistent selection in the national squad, which became a recurring issue. In May 2024, he publicly voiced concerns about former PCB technical director Mohammad Hafeez, suggesting that Hafeez’s influence contributed to his exclusion from the team.
Despite these challenges, Qadir remains focused on the future. He is committed to upholding his father’s cricketing legacy, a significant motivation as he transitions away from the international scene. “As I embark on this new journey, I will treasure my passion for cricket and the invaluable lessons my father has imparted to me,” he said.
In his international career, Usman Qadir concluded with 29 wickets and an economy rate of 7.95 in T20Is. His last match for Pakistan took place in 2022, after which he continued to showcase his talent with the Dolphins in the Champions One-Day Cup. His departure from international cricket leaves a lasting impression on fans and aspiring cricketers alike, symbolizing both the challenges and triumphs that come with representing one’s country on the global stage.
