Happy that my final speech is happening at Wankhede: Zaheer Khan

Happy that my final speech is happening at Wankhede: Zaheer Khan: Zaheer Khan, who recently announced his retirement from international cricket was honoured by Mumbai Cricket Association before the presentation ceremony after the fifth and the final ODI between India and South Africa at his home ground Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

It was a special moment for Zaheer khan and he was obviously overwhelmed and emotional when he was handed over the mic by Sanjay Manjrekar to speak his heart out.

Speaking at the function, Zaheer said he is ‘humble and honoured to see such overwhelming response.’

“Happy that my final speech is happening at Wankhede again,” he added.

Zaheer during the felicitation said, “I was just really happy playing the game. Lot of support from different people in different stages of my career. Thank you very much all the respected members on the tiers. It’s a great honour.”

He also consoled limited-overs skipper MS Dhoni, who was on the losing side today, and the jubilant South African team.

He said “I know it was a tough day for you MS. To AB and team, you were always tough opponents and always brought the best out of me on the field”

“It all started year 15-20 years back and I’m happy my final speech is happening here at Wankhede. I want to stay connected to the game in some capacity, the game has given me a lot. Last but not the least, I want to thank my parents who were here today and have supported me at every stage of my career and have let me chase my dreams.” Zaheer said, speaking about his career.

A plaque was given in honour to the 37-year-old by batting legend Sachin Tendulkar in the presence of BCCI Secretary Anurag Thakur and Maharashtra Cricket Association president Sharad Pawar among many others.

Zaheer is always regarded as India’s greatest left arm pace bowlers. He announced the retirement on October 15.

Zak made his ODI debut on October 3, 2000 vs Kenya at Nairobi and went on to scalp 282 wickets in 200 ODIs. He also picked 311 wickets in 92 Tests and is India’s fourth highest wicket-taker overall.

Here is the Video of Zaheer Khan’s farewell speech:

Zaheer Khan was felicitated at the Wankhede Stadium last night. Here is the presentation and his speech. @ImZaheerhttps://t.co/32kCrRM2mL

— BCCI (@BCCI) October 26, 2015