Adil Rashid Dismisses Retirement Talk

Adil Rashid, England’s veteran leg-spinner, has no immediate plans to retire, despite being the oldest member of England’s white-ball side as they attempt to rebuild after recent setbacks. The 36-year-old spinner and fast bowler Jofra Archer are the only remaining players from England's victorious 2019 World Cup squad currently playing in the one-day international series against Australia.

Rashid, an essential player for England due to his world-class leg-spin, is five years older than the next most senior squad member, with Moeen Ali and Jonny Bairstow, both 34, being passed over in favour of younger players. 

Rashid shared that retirement is not on his mind, saying he still enjoys playing and contributing to victories, with his sights set on future World Cups and Champions Trophies. "I haven't thought about retiring yet," Rashid stated, adding that he plans to keep playing as long as he enjoys the game and performs well.

England, having lost both of their white-ball world titles in the past year, is now in a rebuilding phase, looking ahead to the Champions Trophy in February, the T20 World Cup in 2026, and the 50-over World Cup in 2027. Though the rebuilding process has faced challenges, including heavy losses in the first two ODIs against Australia, Rashid reached a significant milestone by becoming only the third English player to take 200 wickets in the format during the second match at Headingley.

Rashid stated that he is taking each game as it comes and will continue playing as long as he remains fit and enjoys the sport. England’s white-ball squad is also planning for the return of Joe Root and injured captain Jos Buttler, while the future of Test captain Ben Stokes, another key player from the 2019 World Cup, remains uncertain due to injury.

Rashid also expressed his sadness at the retirement of Moeen Ali, whom he described as his "best friend" and noted the absence of their camaraderie. However, Rashid acknowledged that "everything moves on."

Despite the team’s struggles, including being bowled out in consecutive matches where Rashid was the highest scorer from the lower order, the leg-spinner remains optimistic about England’s future. He believes the squad has the talent needed and that it’s just a matter of time before they start stringing together wins again. "It's a rebuilding process, and it will take time, but we have all the tools we need," he said.