Adil Rashid Dismisses Retirement Talks, Eyes England’s Rebuilding Phase

Adil Rashid, the seasoned leg-spinner, has dismissed any immediate thoughts of retirement as England seeks to rebuild its white-ball cricket teams. The 36-year-old, who played a pivotal role in England’s 2019 World Cup triumph, remains a key figure as the team navigates a transitional phase marked by a mix of youth and experience.

Rashid and pace bowler Jofra Archer are the only two players from England’s 2019 World Cup-winning squad to feature in the current group for the ongoing one-day international series against Australia.

Rashid, the oldest member of the squad, continues to anchor England’s spin attack, even as selectors favor younger talent over some veteran players like Moeen Ali and Jonny Bairstow.

“I have not thought about it [retirement] yet,” Rashid told the BBC. “Keep playing, enjoy it, stay fit, bowl well, contribute to wins, hopefully World Cups and Champions Trophies – that is my ultimate aim. I have not thought about retiring or calling it a day any time soon.”

Adil Rashid Completed 200 Wickets in His Previous ODI 

England’s focus is now on building towards future tournaments, particularly the next T20 World Cup in 2026 and the 2027 50-over World Cup, following a year of disappointing performances in defending their white-ball titles.

While the start of this new era has been rocky, including heavy losses in the first two of five ODIs against Australia, Rashid recently became just the third English bowler to reach 200 ODI wickets.

“I’m playing each game and each series as it comes,” Rashid said ahead of England’s third match against Australia. “If I’m still enjoying it and performing well, I’ll keep carrying on.”

Despite the current struggles, England remains committed to experienced players like Joe Root, who was rested ahead of the Test tour of Pakistan, and injured captain Jos Buttler. The future of Test captain Ben Stokes, who is recovering from injury, in England’s white-ball setup remains uncertain.

Rashid acknowledged the absence of his longtime teammate and friend Moeen Ali, who has retired from international cricket after being overlooked for the current squad. “We always have that banter and vibes,” Rashid said. “That’s not there anymore, but that is life. Everything moves on.”

As the team grapples with a period of change, Rashid remains optimistic about England’s prospects, emphasizing the talent in the squad. “There have been big changes, new batters, new bowlers. It will take time. It will always take time when it is a rebuilding process. We have got every base covered in terms of bowling, batting, keeping. All we have to do now is play the game of cricket, enjoy it, string a few games together of winning, and then off we go.”

With his experience and skill, Rashid continues to be a crucial figure in England’s plans, providing both leadership and quality as the team seeks to reclaim its place among the world’s elite.