KARACHI, Sept 14: Pakistan centre-forward Kamran Ashraf Saturday announced his retirement from international hockey after representing the country for nearly a decade.

Kamran said he was quitting to pave the way for a youngster to serve the country in forthcoming Asian Games in Busan, South Korea starting from Sept 29.

“I enjoyed playing and serving the country and now have decided to call it a day. It is satisfying to end the career with a bronze medal in the Champions Trophy,” he said.

Kamran, who played two Olympics (Atlanta 1996 and Sydney 2000) 1994 and 1998 World Cups and six Champions Trophy tournaments, made his debut in the away series against France in 1993.

“Winning the 1994 World Cup in Sydney was my greatest moment of glory” Kamran said.

He, however, said he would continue representing his department, PIA, in the domestic hockey events and national championships.

Kamran was recalled after an year’s gap for the two-month long European tour including four Tests in Spain, Commonwealth Games and Champions Trophy.—APP