Not In Selectors' Scheme Of Things, Jharkhand Spin Stalwart Shahbaz Nadeem Calls It Quits

Jharkhand left-arm spinner Shahbaz Nadeem, who featured in two Tests for India, has announced his retirement from international cricket to try his luck in franchise-based leagues as he does not foresee opportunities in the national team. The 34-year-old said it is better to pave the way for younger talent. "I realise I can't feature for Team India anymore, as I'm not in the selectors' plans, and there is a pool of talented youngsters waiting for their chance," Nadeem told PTI from Dhanbad.

"I would have continued playing if there were opportunities for me in Team India... However, I don't foresee any chances in near future.

"Hence, I decided to retire from Indian cricket and try my luck in different leagues," added the bowler, who will be seen in action in the upcoming Legends League Cricket in Sri Lanka.

Nadeem, who held the world record of best bowling figures (8/10) in an innings in List A cricket in a two-decade long career for Jharkhand, was handed a surprise Test debut against South Africa at his home venue of JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi in 2019.

"I felt this is the correct time and there is no point holding a place in a state team for individual records. It's better to give chance to the youngsters." The lucky Test break that he got was thanks to an injury sustained by Kuldeep Yadav at that time. The Virat Kohli-led side had brought him in less than 24 hours before the third Test against the Proteas after Kuldeep complained of a shoulder niggle.

Nadeem was relaxing in his flat in Kolkata after playing in Vijay Hazare Trophy in Karnataka when he got the debut call.

He flew to Ranchi and the next morning he was handed the "No 296" India Test cap by Kohli.

"I still cherish the moment and remember everything