Disappointed to see Amir quit Test at 27: Shoaib Akhtar

Former Pakistani speedster Shoaib Akhtar expressed his disappointment and spoke heavily on his requirement to Pakistan cricket. Akhtar believes that Amir is too young (27) to call it a day in the longest format and could have easily served the nation for few more years. He went on to give his example when he helped Pakistan to emerge as victorious in England and New Zealand despite knee injuries. 

"I am thoroughly disappointed that Amir has retired at the age where players are at the peak of their careers. It was time for Amir to pay back Pakistan. In a time where Pakistan's run in Test matches is so poor, Amir was needed to deliver for his side and help them win some series. I had helped Pakistan win series in England and New Zealand despite knee injuries," Akhtar said on his YouTube channel.

He went on saying that if was a member of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), he would have never allowed players to play any franchise based T20 cricket across the globe. He requested board to look into the matter and bring more dynamic and energetic people. He believes that like Amir, Hasan Ali, Wahab Riaz will also follow the footpath of their counterpart and retire soon. 

"If I were part of the Pakistan selection board, I would have not allowed these boys to play T20s. There are times when you shouldmake money but this is the time when Pakistan needs you.

"I request the board to look into the matter. Amir is just 27 and his retirement shows us the mentality of the players. I think this is the time for Pakistan PM Imran Khan to look into the matter to bring dynamic and energetic people."

"All these players just want to be the T20 bowlers. This is the fact. Amir, Wahab Riaz, Hasan Ali, all these players want to play only in the T20s. Playing in the ODIs also seems to be a huge task for them," the former Pakistan pacer added. 

On the other hand, Wasim Akram took to Twitter to express his disappointment at Mohammad Amir's decision.

To me Mohammad Amir retiring from Test cricket is a bit surprising because you peak at 27-28 and Test cricket is where you are judged against the best, it’s the ultimate format. Pakistan will need him in two Tests in Australia and then three in England.

— Wasim Akram (@wasimakramlive) July 26, 2019

"To me Mohammad Amir retiring from Test cricket is a bit surprising because you peak at 27-28 and Test cricket is where you are judged against the best, it's the ultimate format," Akram tweeted on Saturday. 

HIGHLIGHTS

• Mohammad Amir retired from Test at 27. 
• Mohammad Amir will continue to play in limited overs. 
• Shoaib Akhtar is disappointed with Amir's decision.