Srinagar: Indian veteran cricketer Wasim Jaffer Saturday drew curtains over his 25-year-long stellar career.
He finished as highest run-scorer in Ranji Trophy apart from topping the run-tally in Irani Trophy. The right-handed batsman, despite scoring tons of runs in domestic cricket, wasn’t provided with ample opportunities to represent India.
However, that no way dejected him. He kept the pace on, making more and more runs each new season. Finally, releasing it’s time to call it a day, the 42-year-old in statement said,
“Thank you to the BCCI, Mumbai Cricket Association and Vidarbha Cricket Association for giving me the opportunity to represent them,”
“Among moments I will cherish the most is getting my India Test cap, scoring 202 vs Pakistan, 212 vs West Indies and winning Test series in West Indies and England 2006-07. I am honoured to have shared the dressing room with the likes of Rahul Dravid, Sourav Ganguly, Anil Kumble, VVS Laxman, Virender Sehwag and MS Dhoni to name a few.”
Praising Sachin Tendulkar for his help, the Mumbaikar said,
“He [Sachin Tendulkar] was my role model. Feel really blessed to have watched him play from close quarters. In my opinion, he was one of the best players of that era along with Brian Lara.
“I would also like to thank Chandrakant Pandit for showing faith in me when no team showed any interest to have me as a professional for 2017-18 season. It is because of him I got a chance to play for Vidarbha again and create history of winning a Ranji Trophy and Irani Cup twice.
“My father wanted one of his sons to represent India and I feel proud to have fulfilled his dream. After all these years in cricket, it is time to move on. But just like the red ball format which is very dear to me, it’s the end of only the first innings. I am looking forward to the second innings in any capacity, be it in coaching, commentary etc.”