Younis Khan Breaks Silence on Abrupt ODI Retirement, Says Pakistan Cricket Board Had No Confidence in Him

Former Pakistan captain Younis Khan has finally broken his silence on his decision to retire abruptly from one-day international last November during the series against England. (Younis Khan Announces Retirement From ODIs)

"It unfortunate I am blamed for the limited over series defeat to England. But one thing is clear I didn't retire abruptly or because of either head coach Waqar Younis or anyone else," Younis said on Geo Super channel.

Younis, 37, said he had wanted to retire from ODIs gracefully like he had done from T20 cricket in 2009.

He said he was in and out of the ODI team and had to wait for months before he was picked in the team and could retire.

"Even where test cricket is concerned when I feel it is the right time I will announce my retirement. It will be my decision," he added.

Younis also declined to comment on statements by Waqar that Younis's sudden retirement on the morning of the first ODI against England upset the team and that he had sat down with Younis and told he could play at any position in all four matches of the series.

"I will only respond to these things when Waqar is sitting with me. But it was not an abrupt decision. I had wanted to retire much earlier but I didn't even get enough matches in the World Cup," Younis said.

While Younis has emerged as Pakistan's top run-getter with most centuries in 104 Tests with a batting average of 53 his record in ODIs has not been as impressive managing an average of just 31 in 265 matches.

The national selectors also picked Younis for just 12 ODI appearances since March 2013, making it clear they didn't have confidence in him in this format.

"How can a senior player react when the selectors say he doesn't feature in their future plans," the batting great said.

Referring to the present dismal form of the national team in ODIs and T20 cricket, Younis said no angels would come to rescue Pakistan cricket.

"It is time we stopped this culture of blaming each other after every defeat. The team management is responsible and supposed to give confidence and encouragement to every player. Dropping one or two players after a defeat wouldn't make a difference. There is a need to give respect to players," Younis said.

The senior batsman still felt that Pakistan would reach the semi-finals of the World T20 in India.

"The team just needs someone to give them confidence that is all. The role of team management is very important. Our former late coach Bob Woolmer was successful and popular because he dealt with each player differently," he said.

Younis made it clear that not being part of the inaugural Pakistan Super League didn't matter to him nor did things like being made brand ambassador of the event or advisor to the Chairman of the board.

"I don't bother about such thing now after the enormous love and respect I have got from the people," he said.