Zaheer announces retirement from international cricket
What's the story
Probably known as India's best left-arm medium-pacer, 37-year old Zaheer Khan, known as Zak among his followers, announced his retirement from international cricket after constant injuries and drop in his form. He played his last match for India against New Zealand in 2014. Zaheer informed about his decision through social media and said he will be available for the next season of IPL.
Career
Zaheer's career at a glance
Zaheer Khan made his ODI debut on 3 October 2000 vs Kenya, test debut on 10 November 2000 vs Bangladesh and T20 debut on 1 December 2006 vs South Africa. He also played county cricket for Worcestershire and plays in the Delhi daredevils team in IPL. He was the second-most successful Indian pace bowler in Test cricket, after former captain Kapil Dev.
Data
Match statistics
Zaheer has played 92 tests for India, picking 311 wickets. He has also played in 200 ODIs in which he has 282 scalps apart from 17 wickets in 17 T20Is.
Performance
14 years of brilliance
Khan was known for his ability to reverse swing with the old ball. He was best noted for his aggressive seam and pace bowling, especially yorkers. He was one of the key members of the 2011 ODI World Cup winning-team, leading the pace attack with 21 wickets in just 9 games. The paceman was India's leading wicket taker in World Cups with 44 wickets.
Injuries
Journey interrupted by recurring injuries
Khan's career was noted for recurring injuries, which often interrupted his progress at the international level. Zaheer strained his hamstring and suffered an ankle injury in the first test of the four-match series against England in 2011. Zaheer then set up ProSport Fitness & Services, a special rehab & training center which offers Fitness Training and Physiotherapy & Injury Management.
Achievements
Career packed with awards and honors
Zaheer was conferred with India's second-highest sporting award, the Arjuna award, by the President of India. He was selected as one of the Wisden Cricketers of the Year in 2008 which is given to players with notable careers by the annual publication Wisden Cricketers' Almanac. He took 10 wickets on his county debut against Somerset, becoming the first player to do so on debut.