I will continue to play at the highest level: Shahid Afridi

Star Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi has clarified that he has not demanded any farewell match while also stating that his career is not getting over in near future. The 36-year-old, a veteran of the game with an experience of 398 ODIs and 98 T20Is, indicated at retiring from the game earlier this year.

“I have played 20 years of international cricket for Pakistan and not the PCB. And I am not dependent on anyone for a match. The love and support I have got and get from my well wishers and fans is enough reward for me,” Afridi told the media in Peshawar on Sunday.

Afridi had last year announced retirement from ODIs and quit his captaincy role in the T20Is after the disappointing campaign in the World T20 in India. However, he insisted on continuing as a player in the shortest format.

Ahead of the West Indies tour in September, it was been highly speculated that the PCB selectors committee led by Inzamam-ul-Haq was all set to arrange a farewell game for Afridi. However, the all-rounder neither denied nor confirmed the report. He said he would not ask the PCB for any farewell match.

PCB’s senior official Najam Sethi made it clear in an interview that he had no issues with Afridi and admired his services to Pakistan cricket. He also insisted that Afridi would be given a befitting farewell by the board when the time came.

Afridi also told the media that he continued enjoying the game of cricket and was very much active in T20 cricket.

“I don’t think my career is over and I am enjoying myself and I will continue to play at the highest level. As far as Pakistan selection is concerned that is for the selectors to decide,” he said.