Ramiz Raja: “I believe that Amir took the easier route by retiring from Test cricket, [and] that was a bit unfair”

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Former Pakistan captain Ramiz Raja has accused left-arm seamer Mohammad Amir of taking “the easier route” by retiring from Test cricket.

Amir shocked the cricketing world when he announced his retirement from the longest format in order to focus on limited overs cricket.

However, Ramiz noted that instead of helping Pakistan became a formidable Test side again, the 27-year-old opted to walk away from the format.

“It is disappointing to learn that Amir opted to retire at such a young age from Test [cricket], which could [help] one attain legendary status in a cricketing point of view,” he was quoted as saying by the Business Recorder. “All the top players have minted runs and taken wickets in Test cricket, making a name for themselves as no one has become a legend playing 50 overs or 20 overs cricket.

“Unfortunately the mindset of some young and senior players has become that Test cricket doesn’t interest them. The worrying part for the cricketing boards is now to persuade such players to play for their countries and make Test cricket financially attractive and entertaining.

“Amir’s role at this time should have been to help Pakistan revive Test cricket, as the side has fallen to the lower ranks. This was the time to repay, but unfortunately I believe that Amir took the easier route by retiring from Test cricket, [and] that was a bit unfair.”

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