Wahab Riaz withdraws from upcoming National T20 Cup amidst criticism from fans

Pakistan cricket has given the cricketing world some of the most dangerous fast bowlers. One of them who showcased his talent and aggression is left-arm pacer Wahab Riaz who was a part of some major tournaments for the Men in Green.

Riaz retired from the game four years ago. Subsequently, the 39-year-old served as an assistant coach and a national selector for the team. Meanwhile, Wahab was set to play in the upcoming Pakistan domestic T20 tournament known as the National T20 Cup for the Lahore Greens. However, there was a lot of criticism as his name came up with fans trolling him for taking the position of young players. They believe that he does not need to take any spot since he has retired and was a selector in the past. It turns out now that he has withdrawn from the tournament.

The reason for Riaz's withdrawal from the competition is being given as personal commitments and engagements. This is certainly a big blow for the Lahore team which has won the competition five times. Wahab Riaz is also the third-highest wicket-taker in the tournament only behind the likes of Sohail Khan and Anwar Ali.

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Wahab Riaz's record in T20s

There is no doubt that Wahab Riaz was one of the biggest stars of the Pakistan bowling attack in the past and though he has not had a very long career, he has been one of the best bowlers in the shortest format where he is the highest wicket-taker (including domestic T20s).

Wahab has taken 413 wickets in 348 T20 games at an average of 22.63 and an economy of 7.54. He has taken three five-wicket hauls in the format and has best figures of 5/8.