Former Pakistani Batter Plans to Unretire From International Cricket Ahead of PSL 11 Former Pakistan batter Asif Ali has suggested he may reconsider his retirement from international cricket, though he has emphasized that his immediate priority is competing in the 2026 Pakistan Super League (PSL 11), which is set to commence on March 26. The middle-order hitter, who stepped away from international duties in September 2025 after representing his country in 21 One-Day Internationals and 58 T20 Internationals, initially stated his intention to focus on domestic and franchise cricket. However, he has now indicated that he remains open to being called upon by the national team if needed. Speaking during a training session with Lahore Qalandars, Asif Ali referenced the recent return of players like Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim, who made comebacks for the ICC T20 World Cup 2024. He highlighted that his primary role is to play cricket and that he would be prepared to contribute if an opportunity arises. Despite leaving the door open for a potential international return, the 34-year-old reiterated that his main objective is to help Lahore Qalandars defend their PSL title. Ali also expressed his dedication to professional cricket as long as he maintains his physical condition, underscoring his commitment to the sport. Known for his ability to finish innings, he mentioned his willingness to adapt to any batting position based on the team’s tactical needs. His comments reflect a balance between his current focus on the PSL and his openness to future international opportunities. The decision to unretire, if it happens, would align with a trend of experienced players rejoining national teams for high-profile tournaments, as seen with Amir and Wasim.#lahore_qalandars #mohammad_amir #asif_ali #psl_11 #icc_t20_world_cup_2024
Asif Ali hints at possibility to reverse international retirement Former Pakistan middle-order batter Asif Ali has expressed openness to reconsider his international retirement, though he emphasized his current focus on the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11. The 34-year-old, who played 21 ODIs and 58 T20Is for Pakistan, announced his exit from international cricket in September 2024 but remains available for national team duties if needed. Speaking at Lahore Qalandars' training session, Ali cited the examples of Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim, who reversed their retirements to participate in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024. Ali stated that his primary objective is to perform in the PSL, which begins on March 26, and reiterated his commitment to playing professional cricket as long as he maintains fitness. "My job is to play cricket," he said, referencing the 2024 World Cup where retired players returned to represent Pakistan. "If there is a need, I am available. But my first focus is to play in the PSL and perform." The batsman, known for his finishing ability, also mentioned his willingness to adapt to any role for Lahore Qalandars, stressing that batting combinations are determined by team requirements. "I have played all matches wherever the team needed me, and the number was selected according to the team combination," he said. "I was happy there, and this time as well, whatever number they give me, I will be happy with that." Ali further highlighted his desire to help Qalandars retain their PSL title, aligning his personal goals with the team's ambitions. "The target and aim are the same for all players; just as we were champions last time, we aim to be champions again this time," he added.#pakistan_super_league #lahore_qalandars #mohammad_amir #asif_ali #icc_men_s_t20_world_cup_2024
Asif Ali Open To Pakistan Return If Team Calls Again The discussion about Asif Ali’s potential return to Pakistan’s national team is resurfacing, with the player himself hinting at his willingness to rejoin if called upon. During a Lahore Qalandars training session, Ali emphasized his readiness to contribute, stating that he remains committed to cricket and would not rule out a comeback if his country needed him. His comments came as part of a broader conversation about his future, with the player downplaying any urgency in his stance. Ali referenced recent instances where retired players seamlessly reintegrated into World Cup squads, noting how such returns have shifted perceptions about the permanence of exits from the game. “My job is simple—I play cricket,” he said, his tone reflecting calm confidence rather than pressure. This openness to a potential return, however, does not overshadow his current focus on PSL 11, where he aims to deliver strong performances for Lahore Qalandars. His priority remains clear: helping his team defend their title while maintaining peak fitness. The narrative around Ali’s retirement plans is not speculative but rooted in his expressed intentions. He has reiterated his desire to support Lahore Qalandars in their quest for success, aligning his personal goals with the team’s ambitions. Fitness remains a key factor in his mindset, with no indication of slowing down. Instead, he appears prepared for another extended period in professional cricket, a mindset that has kept him relevant in the sport. Ali’s approach is team-oriented, with no emphasis on individual batting positions. He has consistently demonstrated flexibility, ready to adapt to wherever the team needs him.#lahore_qalandars #world_cup #asif_ali #psl_11 #pakistan_national_team
