Former Pakistan pacer Aizaz Cheema has retired from first-class cricket after playing 140 games and taking 572 wickets at an average of 20. Cheema's retirement came after Central Punjab won the the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy following their innings and 16-run win over Northern in the final. Cheema who took two wickets in the final, ended the season with 16 wickets at an average of 31.06.
He has also represented Pakistan in seven Tests, where he took 20 wickets at an average of 31.90, and 14 ODIs, where he picked up 23 wickets at an average of 25.78. In his brief T20 career Cheema picked up eight wickets in five games at an average of 14.50. Pakistan Test skipper heaped praise on Cheema for a wonderful first-class career. "Congratulations @AizazCheema for a wonderful first class career👏👏👏fabulous person always loved in dressing room... you will be remembered for your bowling but also that you were always the last person on the bus always argued about who’s watch is right.'' said Azhar Ali on Twitter.
Pakistan batsman Abid Ali also congratulated Cheema after the veteran pacer retired from first-class cricket.“Congratulations Aizaz Cheema for a fantastic first-class career. One of the finest persons I have ever played with. All the best Aizaz bhai, you are and you will always be the champion,” Abid said on Twitter. Pakistan bowling coach described Cheema as a champion professional. Taking to his Twitter Waqar Younis wrote, 140 games 572 wickets.“A Champion Professional” @AizazCheema Congratulations on a Great Career..Proud of you Cheema. Cheema last represented Pakistan in 2012 against Australia. Check out the congratulatory tweets for Aizaz Cheema here....
