In what came as a shock for not only cricket fraternity but also for the world, Pakistani woman cricketer Ayesha Naseem announced her retirement from sports at the mere age of 18. Yes! you heard it right. Ayesha Naseem announced her retirement at the mere age of 18. Ayesha has so far played four ODIs and 30 T20Is. She is a top-order batter, who has scored 369 runs in T20Is at an average of 18.45. In ODIs, she has a tally of 33 runs. Notably, in cricketers 18 is the age after which generally cricketers reach the peak of their career. Apart from the age factor, the actual Ayesha Naseem retirement reason has sparked a debate. Now, the question arises why did Ayesha Naseem quit cricket at the age of 18? Below is everything you need to know-
Ayesha Naseem's retirement reason
As per Pakistani media reports, Ayesha Naseem's decision to quit cricket has been taken by herself. Ayesha Naseem has reportedly informed the PCB that he retiring from cricket as wants to align her life with the principles of Islam. However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is yet to react on the matter. Notably, at the 2023 Women's T20 World Cup, Ayesha scored a 25-ball 43* for Pakistan against India. “I’m leaving cricket and want my life according to Islam,” Ayesha reportedly told PCB. Notably, Ayesha Naseem is among the rising talent of Pakistan women's cricket team. he was even praised by the legendary Wasim Akram once for her power hitting. She made her debut in 2020-21.
As per a newswire report, Pakitan's women's cricket team skipper Nida Dar and the PCB tried to convince Ayesha to revere her decision or at least think again about it, but the 18-year-cricketer did not change her decision. A source in the known development was quoted saying that Ayesha had already informed the PCB about her decision in February-March. "She was contacted for a training camp and assignment but she told the board she no longer wanted to play cricket.” the source informed a news wire. “Efforts were made even by Nida Dar and some Pakistan players to convince her that she can be a practicing Muslim and also play cricket at the same time but Ayesha refused to rethink her decision,” he added.
For those who are unaware, veteran cricketers like Saeed Anwar, Inzamam ul Haq, Muhammad Yousuf, Saqlain Mushtaq and Mushtaq Ahmed, turned to religion while playing cricket however, it was only Anwar who left the game altogether after losing his young daughter in 2002.
PSG star Neymar Jr. gets involved in a physical fight in Rio de Janeiro nightclub; Video Viral