Shahid Afridi to take decision on retirement in 4-5 days

Mohali, March 26: Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi will take a decision on his retirement from international cricket in 4-5 days after returning to his country. Pakistan were knocked out of the ongoing World Twenty20 after losing their Group 2 game to Australia by 21 runs here on Friday.

They started with a victory over Bangladesh but were then beaten by New Zealand, India and Australia. Afridi has been under a lot of pressure to quit following their dismal performance in the last few tournaments.

“When I go back home, in the first 4-5 days I will take the decision (on retirement). I will announce it in my country. Whatever is better for the country, I will go with that. I will see my form,” Afridi said.

“There is pressure, media pressure. As a player, I am fit. As a captain, I am not fit. I have enjoyed my captaincy. The team management, selection committee, and Shaharyar Khan (Pakistan Cricket Board chairman) have helped me out.” The veteran all-rounder believes they were just not good enough against the present 50-over World Champions.

“I want to congratulate Australia. Honestly, we were not good enough. The last four overs, we gave 40 runs. I want to thank people from Calcutta. I thank people who came and supported us from Pakistan and Kashmir. Thanks to the BCCI,” he said. (IANS)