India’s World Cup hero Zaheer Khan announces retirement from international cricket

Mumbai: One of India's premier fast bowler Zaheer Khan called time on his illustrious international career as he announced his retirement on Thursday.

The 37-year-old veteran, who has played 92 Test matches, 200 ODIs and 17 T20 Internationals has been in and out of the team in the last three to four years due to recurrent injuries which a took a toll on his body.

In 92 Test matches, Zaheer has taken 311 wickets and is fourth highest wicket-taker in longer version amongst Indians after Anil Kumble (619), Kapil Dev (434) and Harbhajan Singh (417).

He played a major role in India's 2011 World Cup triumph with 21 wickets in the tournament.

According to sources, Zaheer called up IPL chairman and senior BCCI functionary Rajeev Shukla to intimate his decision to hang his boots.

Shukla tweeted,

Zaheer khan to announce his retirement today My best wishes to him for post retirement carrier

— Rajeev Shukla (@ShuklaRajiv) October 15, 2015

Terming Zaheer his 'most favourite bowler since 2002', Rajeev Shukla hoped that Zaheer keeps playing IPL.

Hope Zaheer khan will keep on playing Ipl

— Rajeev Shukla (@ShuklaRajiv) October 15, 2015

Zaheer posted a note as he announced his retirement from international cricket.

Zaheer has been my most favourite bowler since 2002 when I was manager of team india on England tour

— Rajeev Shukla (@ShuklaRajiv) October 15, 2015

Zaheer is contracted with Delhi Daredevils in the IPL.

In an elaborate statement, Zaheer announced his decision to retire from international cricket.

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