Pakistan fast bowler, Wahab Riaz, has officially announced his retirement from international cricket to pursue his journey in franchise cricket. 

The cricketing world was taken aback as Wahab revealed his decision to step away from all formats of the game, just on the brink of the highly anticipated World Cup 2023, set to take place in India later this year.

The announcement came through a tweet from the pacer's official account, wherein he expressed his gratitude for the opportunities he received to serve his country on the global stage. 

The message also contained an attached document, a formal statement confirming his immediate release from international commitments, enabling him to fully dedicate himself to his new venture in franchise cricket.

“I have been speaking about my retirement plans past two years, that 2023 is my target to retire from International cricket, and I feel comfortable now more than ever that I have served my country and National team to the best I could have,” said Wahab.

"It has been an honor and a privilege to represent Pakistan on the international stage. As I bid farewell to this chapter, I am thrilled to embark on a new adventure in franchise cricket, where I hope to entertain and inspire audiences while competing against some of the best talents in the world," he further added.

In a recent press conference held on Wednesday, the 38-year-old disclosed the factors that led to his choice of retiring from international cricket.

“I wanted to continue playing for Pakistan but that is difficult and nearly impossible right now,” he said.

“Pakistan has good fast bowlers at the moment and there is no place for me in the side,” he concluded.

The left-arm pacer played 27 Tests, 91 ODIs and 36 T20Is in his international career.