The excitement is evident as India prepares to host the ODI World Cup for the first time in 12 years. This highly anticipated event, planned to take place in October-November 2023, is sure to enthral cricket fans all around the world. India, known for its love of cricket, has been waiting for an opportunity to win a multinational tournament since their Champions Trophy victory in 2013.
While the cricketing world awaits the greatest teams to fight, there are speculations that several Pakistani players may retire following the event, providing a significant end to the proceedings. So today in this article we will discuss about three players who might retire after ODI World Cup 2023.
There has been speculation that veteran cricketer Shoaib Malik may consider retiring after the ODI World Cup in 2023. Despite a brilliant career that included 287 matches, 7534 runs, a high score of 143, nine hundreds, and 44 half-centuries with an average of 34.56, Malik’s current form and absence from international cricket have encouraged such speculation.
Age catches up with even the most accomplished athletes, and at 42 years old, Malik may be nearing the end of his illustrious career. Furthermore, the World Cup is frequently used as a key milestone for players to bid farewell to the sport, increasing the chances of Malik’s retirement. Cricket fans around the world will be eagerly awaiting Malik’s decision, which will recognise his enormous contributions to the game.
Given his present form and absence from international cricket, former Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed’s retirement after the ODI World Cup 2023 is increasingly plausible. Sarfaraz has contributed significantly in his 117-match career, scoring 2315 runs, with a best score of 105, along with two hundreds and eleven half-centuries, demonstrating his batting prowess. However, his average of 33.55 indicates a recent fall in performance.
In addition, his absence from the international stage may have hampered his prospects of making a comeback and regaining his form. As the World Cup approaches, it is possible that Sarfaraz will consider retiring from international cricket, so bidding farewell to a memorable career in Pakistan cricket.
Former Pakistani cricketer Yasir Shah is rumoured to be considering retirement after the ODI World Cup concludes in 2023. Shah’s international ODI career has been a rollercoaster ride of uneven results and infrequent appearances. In 25 matches, he has secured 24 wickets, with his best statistics being an amazing 6-26.
His economy rate of 5.34, on the other hand, indicating that he has struggled to keep consistent control over his bowling. Furthermore, Shah’s last ODI appearance was against England in 2019, indicating a dwindling position in the national team setup. Given these circumstances, the World Cup might be a fitting send-off for the veteran spinner, forcing him to consider retiring from the limited-overs game.