Shahid Khan Afridi takes back retirement decision

KARACHI (18th October, 2011): Former Pakistan cricket captain and all-rounder, Shahid Khan Afridi on Tuesday reversed his decision to retire from international cricket.

“My services are available at all times for Pakistan cricket team.

I have no lust for any office, I have always thought of the national interest,” the famed cricketer spoke to media at Karachi University.

President Asif Ali Zardari last week appointed banker Zaka Ashraf chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to replace Ijaz Butt, who had developed serious differences with Afridi in May.

“Since the board chairman has changed, I take back my retirement decision and am available to play for Pakistan,” Afridi told reporters.

“I had said I will never play with Butt as chairman, so things have changed now.”

His decision came six days after new Pakistan Cricket Board chairman – Zaka Ashraf – assumed the office.

Afridi has announced retirement following his disputes with former PCB supremo Ejaz Butt and Pakistan coach Waqar Younus.

The skipper has led the country to World Cup 2011 semifinal against India, the sensational match Pakistan lost after a nail-biting fight.

Afridi’s fans and cricket-lovers across the country are happy on the decision.

(NEWS)