Is Asif Ali reversing his international retirement?

Pakistan all-rounder Asif Ali could reverse his international retirement if the team requires him. Asif announced his retirement in September last year, after being out of the senior side since 2022.

Open to return if needed

Citing the examples of players like Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim, who came out of retirement to represent Pakistan during the 2024 T20 World Cup, Asif said he could do the same.

However, he also reiterated that his immediate focus is on doing well during the Pakistan Super League (PSL), where he is representing Lahore Qalandars this season.

"Look, my job is to play cricket. You saw in the [2024] World Cup as well that two retired players returned to the Pakistan team. If there is a need, I am available. But my first focus is to play in the PSL and perform," Asif said while speaking to media on the sidelines of Lahore’s training session ahead of the competition.

Flexible role for Qalandars

The all-rounder primarily played a finisher’s role for Pakistan, and late middle-order is where teams in franchise cricket deem him decent. However, he said he will be ready to turn out for Qalandars wherever the team would need.

"Look, I have played all matches wherever the team needed me, and the number was selected according to the team combination," Asif shared.

"I was happy there, and this time as well, whatever number they give me, I will be happy with that," he added.

ALSO READ:

Rawalpindiz rope in Usman Khawaja as Evans missed out on PSL 11- IPL