Scotland pacer Alasdair Evans announces retirement from international cricket
Scotland seamer Alasdair Evans announced his retirement from international cricket on Tuesday, September 24. The 35-year-old last played for the Scottish team during an ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifier against Sri Lanka in 2023, where he took one wicket.
Evans had made his debut in Aberdeen in 2009 during an ODI against Canada. Reflecting on that moment, Alasdair shared with Cricket Scotland:
“I remember when I made my debut in Aberdeen, I got a phone call one night from the Head coach Pete Steindl to join as cover as there’d been lots of injuries in the squad. I had never really thought growing up that I could be an international cricketer, so when that first call came, I thought it was a joke!"
"Then the day before the game Richie Berrington rolled his ankle and that was me playing. It was the best way for me – not time to think about it, I could just go out and try to enjoy it. It was a complete whirlwind," he added.
The right-arm pacer represented his country in 42 ODIs, claiming 58 wickets. Additionally, he played in 35 T20Is, where he took 41 wickets.
“I have been so lucky” - Alasdair Evans expresses his gratitude to teammates and coaches
The 35-year-old also expressed his appreciation for the support he received from his teammates, coaches, and staff throughout his journey. He stated:
“I have been so lucky to work alongside some amazing people throughout my journey, including teammates, coaches, and staff, without whose support I would not have been able to have the most amazing fifteen years."
"I want to thank every single one of them for the time and energy they have dedicated, not only to Scottish cricket but also to help support me, to allow me to make the most unforgettable memories," he continued.
Alasdair was an integral part of Scotland's bowling lineup in three World Cups: the 2015 ICC World Cup held in Australia and New Zealand where he picked up six wickets in four games. He also picked up a combined four wickets in five games in the 2016 ICC T20 World Cup in India and the 2021 ICC T20 World Cup in Oman and the UAE.