Mohammad Nabi to retire from international cricket? Veteran All-Rounder drops bombshell revelation

Veteran Afghanistan all-rounder Mohammad Nabi recently opened up about his retirement from international cricket, stating that he has no plans to retire soon. Mohammad Nabi expressed his desire to represent the Afghanistan team in the 2026 T20 World Cup, which will be hosted by India and Sri Lanka.

Mohammad Nabi has been a crucial member and key figure in the Afghanistan cricket team since his debut in 2009. The veteran all-rounder has represented Afghanistan in 3 Tests, 161 ODIs, and 128 T20 Internationals. Nabi has scored over 5,000 runs and taken 250 wickets in his illustrious cricketing career.

My Body Is Working And I Am Running Fast - Mohammad Nabi

Mohammad Nabi expressed his intention to continue playing cricket for as long as he remains fit and effective. Nabi said that he is in good shape, maintaining his speed, fielding ability, and bowling performance.

"For how long do I want to continue my cricket? Still, my body is working and I am running fast. I am fielding in the boundary taking catches well and doing bowling well. Still, I am doing well and I am trying to keep myself (fit) for as long as possible," Cricbuzz quoted Nabi as saying on Friday.

Will Be My Last Champions Trophy - Mohammad Nabi

The 39-year-old stated that he will decide his ODI future after the Champions Trophy. Nabi mentioned he plans to retire from international cricket following the next T20 World Cup, provided he is selected.

"Afghanistan team needs me as well at this stage but still may be Champions Trophy will be my last Champions Trophy in 50-over (format) and after that maybe one year and that's it. Hope so (about playing in the next T20 World Cup). If I am selected I will have to play," Nabi added.

I Try My Best To Train Hard - Mohammad Nabi

Nabi acknowledged aging and emphasized his dedication to maintaining fitness through rigorous training and a clean diet. He added that proper nutrition and recovery are crucial for staying in shape.

"I am not young as I am 40 years old man. Still, I try my best to train hard and do my recovery as quickly as possible and it all depends on your food and how you eat. How you eat clean and good food as it makes you more fit," Nabi further stated.

The Afghanistan team advanced to the semi-finals for the first time in the recently concluded T20 World Cup 2024 in the West Indies and the United States of America (USA) last month. The Rashid Khan-led team defeated strong title contenders like New Zealand and Australia but lost to South Africa in the semi-final.

Mohammad Nabi emphasized that the experience gained from franchise cricket is shared with younger players. Nabi described the semi-final achievement as a significant milestone and expressed hope for future successes, acknowledging the collective contributions of the team during the ICC tournament.