Usman Qadir announces retirement from Pakistan cricket at the age of 31
Usman Qadir, the son of legendary Pakistan spinner Abdul Qadir, announced his retirement from Pakistan cricket on Thursday, October 3. The leg-spinner had recently represented the Dolphins in the Champions Cup, with his last international appearance coming at the 2023 Asian Games.
Usman Qadir has been in and out of the T20I squad since debuting in 2020. Before his international debut, he had some key stints with Lahore Qalandars and Western Australia, with the latter eventually leading to a deal with the Perth Scorchers.
After his successful spell Down Under, he expressed his desire to represent Australia.
"No more Pakistan. I want to play for Australia definitely, 100 per cent. Because I did not get any chances in Pakistan. There is politics. Hopefully I will get citizenship in two years’ time," Qadir had told Sydney Morning Herald back in 2018.
But soon after that, he managed to get into the scheme of things as far as the Pakistan spin bowling department was concerned. However, he soon faded away and was overshadowed by fellow spinners like Shadab Khan, Usama Mir, and Abrar Ahmed.
Barely two weeks after his appearance in Pakistan's List-A domestic tournament, he took to social media to announce his retirement from Pakistan cricket.
“Today, I am announcing my retirement from Pakistan cricket, and as I reflect on this incredible journey, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude. It has been an immense honor to represent my country, and I’m thankful for the support of my coaches and teammates who have been with me every step of the way," Usman Qadir wrote on X.
“As I step into this new chapter, I will be continuing my dad’s legacy, embracing both my love for cricket and the lessons he instilled in me. I carry with me the spirit of Pakistan cricket and the cherished memories we created together. Thank you for everything," Qadir added.
Usman Qadir had also accused PCB of mismanaging a thumb injury he had sustained in 2022 during a T20I contest against England at home.
Usman Qadir steps away from Pakistan cricket with 25 T20I and 1 ODI appearance
Since making his debut in 2020, Qadir racked up 25 appearances in the shortest format, claiming 31 wickets at an economy rate of 7.96. He also made a solitary ODI appearance against South Africa away from home in 2021, finishing with figures of 1-48.
Apart from his international career, Qadir played 13 first class matches, returning with 21 wickets at an average of 41.95.