"I will always be available to play for my country" - Tabraiz Shamsi opts out of national contract to explore franchise opportunities
South African limited-overs specialist Tabraiz Shamsi has announced his decision to step away from the central contract. While the left-arm spinner hopes to be play as much franchise cricket as possible, the veteran also vowed to be available for his country whenever needed.
Shamsi started his international career by playing Test cricket for South Africa, but wore the whites at the international level only twice. He has featured in 51 ODIs and 70 T20Is till date, collectively taking 161 scalps.
In a statement released by Cricket South Africa (CSA), the 34-year-old stated that he wishes to be more flexible to look after his family better. He also suggested that he will continue to play until the Proteas win a World Cup.
The statement read:
"I have decided to opt out of my central contract in order to be more flexible during the domestic season, allowing me to explore all opportunities available and look after my family in the best way possible. This will not impact my ability or motivation to play for the Proteas in any way and I will always be available to play for my country whenever I am needed.
"It has always been my dream to bring the World Cup home to South Africa, and no franchise league will ever be more important than playing for my county."
The decision to opt out of national contracts has been prevalent among New Zealand cricketers as the likes of Kane Williamson, Trent Boult, and Martin Guptill have relinquished it in recent years.
"We sincerely appreciate his honesty and openness" - CSA director of cricket on Tabraiz Shamsi's decision
CSA Director of Cricket Enoch Nkwe opened up on Shamsi's decision, claiming to be glad that he is committed to playing for the national team. Nkwe said in the statement:
"Shamo is a key member of our white-ball squads, and while we respect his decision, we are pleased that he remains committed to representing South Africa. We sincerely appreciate his honesty and openness on the matter, which is integral and what we want from our players."
Shamsi last played professional cricket during the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) this year.