Curtains for Pak veteran Shoaib Malik's long ODI career; tributes pour in

Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Malik on Friday announced his retirement from ODI cricket after his country's final league clash against Bangladesh in World Cup 2019.

"I am retiring from ODI cricket. I had made this decision a few years ago, that I would retire after Pakistan's last world cup match," Malik said in a post-match conference.

Malik added that the retirement would allow him to spend more time with his family and focus on the T20 format.

"I am sad I am leaving this format of cricket that I once loved but happy that I would have more time to spend with my family," He added. "This will also allow me to focus on the T20s."

Shortly after, Malik took to his Twitter to thank his family, friends, coaches, and fans for the support they provided him through his carrier that spanned 20 years.

"Today I retire from One Day International cricket. Huge Thank you to all the players I have played with, coaches I have trained under, family, friends, media, and sponsors. Most importantly my fans, I love you all," Malik wrote.

As soon as Malik announced his decision, many cricketers took to the social-networking platform to congratulate the veteran on an astounding career.

"Congratulations @realshoaibmalik on wonderful ODI career, As Teammate enjoyed ur company, True ambassador of Pakistan Ur & as Fan of Pakistan Cricket would like to thank U for ur contributions in Pakistan Cricket, Good Luck for future Endeavours, Stay Blessed," Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez tweeted.

Malik's wife Sania Mirza also tweeted applauding the cricketer's glorious career.

"Every story has an end, but in life, every ending is a new beginning' @realshoaibmalik, u have proudly played for your country for 20 years and u continue to do so with so much honour and humility. Izhaan and I are so proud of everything you have achieved but also for who ur," Mirza tweeted.

Malik made his ODI debut in October 1999. He was one of the last remaining active cricketers who had made their debut in the 20th century. The batsman was not a part of the playing XI on Friday where his team defeated Bangladesh by 94 runs.