Former Pakistan leg-spinner Usman Qadir, who bid goodbye to international cricket in 2024, has taken a U-turn on retirement, hours after his team's exit from T20 World Cup 2026 despite a five-run win over co-hosts Sri Lanka. As Pakistan couldn't get past New Zealand's net run rate (NRR) and missed the semifinal spot, Qadir made himself available for selection across all formats.
“After a period of deep reflection and a successful stint in Australia, I have decided to officially withdraw my retirement from all formats of international cricket with immediate effect," Qadir wrote on X on early hours of March 1.
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Qadir, who made his last T20I appearance in 2023, feels that his performances in Australia have helped him regain the competitive edge.
“My time playing in Australia was transformative. Achieving 41 wickets and receiving such a positive response reminded me that my competitive edge is as sharp as ever. It proved to me that I still have a significant contribution to make on the global stage,” the leg-spinner said.
Usman is son of Pakistan great Abdul Qadir who claimed 236 and 132 wickets in Tests and ODIs respectively. His brother-in-law is out-of-favour wicketkeeper-batter Umar Akmal.
“Cricket is more than just a sport for me; it is a family legacy. After discussing this with my family and considering my father's immense contributions to Pakistan cricket, I feel a profound responsibility to continue. My family's wishes combined with my own burning desire to represent my country, have made this decision clear,” Usman added.
“I am fully committed to the grind and am making myself available for selection across all formats, starting from the basis, to serve Pakistan cricket to the best of my ability.
“My journey isn't finished. I am ready to carry the spirit of Pakistan once again.”
Usman Qadir’s T20I numbers
Usman made his T20I debut in 2020 against Zimbabwe. He has played 25 T20Is and claimed 31 wickets at an average of 18.48. His last T20I appearance was against Bangladesh in Asian Games 2023. He made his ODI debut against South Africa in 2021 and never played another.
Interestingly, Qadir is not a part of any of the franchises in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Also, Pakistan already have the likes of Abrar Ahmed and Usman Tariq in the lineup. It is yet to be seen how Usman Qadir plans to get back into Pakistan’s T20I or ODI side.