Image Source: ACC
Pakistan pacer Aiman Anwer retires from international cricket; set to begin a new innings as a match referee
Veteran Pakistan women's team fast bowler Aiman Anwer has bid farewell to international cricket at the age of 34. Unable to continue bowling due to persistent knee issues, she has decided to become a match referee. Aiman has already made her debut as a match referee during the ongoing Women's Under-19 tournament in Karachi.
Key reasons for retirement and career switch
- Knee injury: Due to a chronic knee injury, she was unable to bowl consistently; after hopes of a team comeback faded, she chose the path of officiating (refereeing).
- Continuing in domestic cricket: Despite retiring from international cricket, Aiman will continue to play in local tournaments and domestic leagues.
- Emotional post: Announcing her retirement, Aiman wrote on X (formerly Twitter), "Starting a new chapter as a match referee closes the curtain on the previous chapter, but the book remains the same."
Aiman Anwer's international career record
The Karachi-born right-arm fast bowler made her international debut in July 2016:
- ODI: 8 matches | 4 wickets (Average: 45.50)
- T20 International (T20I): 37 matches | 29 wickets (Average: 29.44)
- World Cup appearances: She was part of the squads for the 2018, 2020, and 2023 T20 World Cups, as well as the 2022 Women's ODI World Cup. She played her final international match against the West Indies during the 2023 T20 World Cup.
Made a mark in broadcasting and commentary too
Aiman has not only served as a match referee but has also been active in broadcasting. She was part of the commentary panel for the National Champions Cup held in Multan and has worked as a cricket expert and analyst for several TV channels.
