Karachi, Aug 15: Pakistan's world record-holding opener Saeed Anwar today announced his retirement from international and first class cricket. "I enjoyed my cricket for Pakistan and after 15 years today I announce my retirement from international and first class cricket," he said at a news conference.

The 34-year-old left hander, who became a devout Muslim and grew a large beard after the death of his daughter two years ago, still holds the record for the highest score in one-day cricket. He made 194 against India at Chennai in 1997.

Anwar played 55 Tests and 247 one-day games for Pakistan.

Although Anwar managed to score a century and was Pakistan's highest scorer during their first-round exit from this year's World Cup in Southern Africa, he was one of eight players dropped from the squad as cricket authorities started revamping the team. Bureau Report