Veteran Pakistan spinner Saeed Ajmal has declined Pakistan Cricket Board's offer of a 'fitting send-off', saying he still has a lot to contribute to the game and his country.
A tweet from PCB executive committee chairman Najam Sethi over the weekend raised speculation that Ajmal and fellow veteran Shahid Afridi were set to announce their retirement from the international game.
"PCB will honour Afridi and Ajmal in fitting sendoffs. I will meet and discuss this with them next week," Sethi had tweeted.
Ajmal said that he is willing to fight and regain his place in the Pakistan squad, also pointing out at his good performances in domestic leagues.
"I have no intention to quit one-day or Twenty20 cricket at the moment,” the 38-year-old told Dawn.
"I have worked really hard to stage a comeback and my performance in the National T20 Cup reflects that.
"I have proved my fitness in the National T20 Cup. I should be given a chance. If I fail to perform, I will walk away myself.
"The Board doesn’t have a decent off-spinner in its entire domestic structure."
Ajmal took a tournament-high 20 wickets in Pakistan's National T20 Cup this month at an average of 11 and an economy rate of 6.28 as his Karachi Blues won the title.
The off-spinner has had a turbulent two years since he was banned from international cricket in September 2014 due to an illegal bowling action
"I have proved my form and fitness. I am not quitting and will keep on playing domestic cricket.
"I have played a key role in so many victories; the Board should give me a chance like the West Indies are giving to Sunil Narine," Ajmal said.
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