Former UAE Skipper Ahmed Raza Bids Adieu To International Cricket

Published - 05 Mar 2023, 05:40 PM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 12:15 AM

Ahmed Raza. Image: Wikipedia

UAE had a memorable T20 WC 2022 under the regime of the then-skipper Ahmed Raza. Raza’s side defeated Namibia in the Qualifier’s stage where they made a strong case for themselves. He was the most successful skipper of the UAE as in his tenure, the team won 18 T20Is out of 27 where they dominated the terms.

Ahmed Raza has indicated that he will take the role of UAE Assistant Head Coach. UAE recently lost the T20I series against Afghanistan by 1-2 where they weren’t able to grab key moments of the match. The problem with UAE is that they don’t have a reliable middle-order present.

Ahmed Raza on Retirement

Ahmed Raza took to his social media handle and issued a statement.

“It is with great pride that I’m announcing my retirement from all forms of cricket. After much thought, I believe this is the right time to step away from the game that has given me so much love and respect over the last 17 years,” said Ahmed Raza.

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“Representing and leading my country in the great sport of cricket has been one of the greatest honors of mine. I must thank the Board, my colleagues, coaches, selectors and most importantly my late father, who supported and enabled me to live my dream to the fullest. Also, my mother, my siblings and my friends who were there through it all. Lastly and most importantly to my wife, Mehreen, who has been my biggest support system over the last few years,” he stated.

“It’s hard to pinpoint a moment over the course of 17 years, however, leading the UAE to the T20 World Cup will always be a significant achievement of mine. “Whilst there are many that supported me throughout my career – I would like to say a special thank you to Aqib Javed, who contributed greatly to my success and turned a rookie into a thorough professional. I am looking forward to what the future holds,” he added.

Tweet: Ahmed Raza’ statement on Retirement

pic.twitter.com/IxgXv5HFrA

— Ahmed Raza (@ahmedrazauae) March 3, 2023

Ahmed Raza an Asset

Ahmed Raza made his debut way back in 2014 and played 54 ODIs and as many T20Is for the UAE. The all-rounder was an inseparable part of the team where he contributed in all the 3 facets of the game. He had taken 65 wickets in ODIs & 36 wickets in the T20I format.

With so many ICC events aligned next, it would be interesting to see how the UAE fares. UAE would be aiming to make a case in the upcoming ODI WC 2023 where they will have to outclass the opposition in the ODI WC 2023 Qualifiers scheduled in June 2023 in Zimbabwe.

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