Dhaka, Feb 19 (BDNEWS) – Khaled Mahmud Sujon goes to retirement from international cricket with playing his last one-dayer against Sri Lanka Monday at Shaheed Chandhu Stadium (SCS) in Bogra.
The announcement formally came Sunday at a crowded press conference at SCS where coach Dav Whatmore was present.
'I have been thinking about the retirement from the international cricket for quite some times and I told you earlier. I felt it is a very high time to quit. I'm now 35-year-old and its not very easy to cope with international cricket at this age,' said Mahmud, who burst into tear during the talking.
"Besides, many young cricketers are knocking the door to enter into the international cricket and I think they should get the chance in the international cricket to prove their worth," said Mahmud, who scored 955-run in ODIs and 266-runs in Tests.
It's an example in Bangladesh as Mahmud was only the Bangladeshi cricketer, who is going to cut the relation with the international cricket on the field through a prior announcement.
'I'm with Bangladesh team for nearly 10 years and enjoyed a number of memorable moments. I thank to Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) for giving me the opportunity. I also thank to people of Bangladesh, fans and my family members who gave me plenty of support throughout the career," said Sujan who played 76 ODIs and 12 Tests.
Mahmud had once announced his retirement two years back in February 2004, when he was dethroned from the captaincy of the Bangladesh cricket team unceremoniously and was scrapped from the Zimbabwe-bound Test squad.
"I will defiantly come forward to serve the Bangladesh Cricket if the BCB invites me in their any need. He, however, changed his mind following the request of the BCB high ups, who had promised to give him a farewell from the field. And they are about to keep the word.
'When I came here to take over the Bangladesh cricket team in 2003, Chacha (Mahmud) was the captain and we made good bond over the time we have been associated. The way he performed recently, he still deserves a place in the team. I wish him very very good luck,' said caoch Dav Whatmore.
'This is the day that comes to life in every cricketer. It came in my life as well. I know how tough it to control one's emotion,' added Whatmore.
Mahmud, who played seven ODIs against Sri Lanka with putting highest 39 at Premadasa stadium in August 2002, is known a best motivator in the team and young players likes him very much.
Besides, Mahmud was one member of Bangladesh winning-team against Pakistan in 1999 World Cup to score 27-run and finished 10-2-31-3 to demolish Pakistan top order.
Mahmud's carrier best 50-run came against Zimbabwe at Bangabandhu National Stadium in November 2001 and carrier best bowling four for 19 also came against Zimbabwe at Harare Sports Club ground.
BDNEWS/2017 hrs
