Afridi helps Nazir to return to cricket after four and a half years

After Tendinitis – an irritation of a tendon, which attaches muscle to a bone – forced him to stay away from cricket for four and a half years, Pakistan opener Imran Nazir is finally set to make a comeback and it was possible because of former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi.

After Tendinitis – an irritation of a tendon, which attaches muscle to a bone – forced him to stay away from cricket for four and a half years, Pakistan opener Imran Nazir is finally set to make a comeback and it was possible because of former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi.

“I am fir and ready to resume cricket after a long time,” said the 36-year-old.

Nazir, who last played for Pakistan in a T20 match in 2012, thanked his fans and former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi for helping him get back to full fitness. "My fans prayed for me because of which I am standing here and I am thankful for their support. I am also thankful to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Shahid Afridi foundation for helping me in getting rid of the illness," the Express Tribune quoted Nazir, as saying.

Reflecting on his future course of action, the opening batsman said that he is not sure of how long he would be able to continue playing. He, however, said that he is eager to participate in T20 Leagues.

"I am just resuming cricket so I will see how long I can play," he said. "I had offers of playing in T20 leagues before as well but I couldn't participate as I was not fit, but now I am in a good shape and will be eager to play if I get a suitable offer," he said.

Nazir has appeared in a total of 79 one-day matches for Pakistan and scored 1,895 runs at an average of 24.66. In T20I, he has amassed 500 runs at an average of 21.74 in 25 games.