88 test matches with 7431 runs at an average of 53.07, 282 one day internationals containing 9624 runs at an average of 42.39 and a solitary Twenty/20 international which heralded 20 runs. In all, 39 centuries and 96 half centuries have come from the flashing blade of a certain Mohammad Yousuf.

Despite the brilliant career record, Yousuf currently finds himself looking in from the outside after he was served with a suspension by the Pakistan Cricket Board. Yousuf was one of seven players punished by the Board after a disastrous tour of Australia marred by poor performances on the field and alleged infighting off the field.

There has been a lot of water under the bridge since the tour of Australia ended, with television appearances, allegations of a lack of support from players whilst in Australia and the latest twist was Yousuf's threat to quit international cricket for good. Even by Pakistani cricketing standards the past few weeks have been a turbulent time for 35 year old Yousuf.

Speaking exclusively to PakPassion.net Yousuf stated that he had been overwhelmed by the messages of support from fans all over the world. "The level of support shown to me since the ban by the fans has really touched me and I appreciate all the messages of support I have received. I will always remember the backing of the fans, and the support from my family and my friends at this difficult time".

Yousuf who still remains one of the most elegant batsmen in international cricket, explained his sudden decision to quit cricket. "It was never my intention to suddenly stop playing international cricket like this and I feel that I still have 2 or 3 years international cricket left in me and could have gone on playing for Pakistan. I always wanted to retire when I felt the time was right and not for it to be dictated to me. I feel physically fit and feel that I could have served the nation well for at least the next couple of years, but I guess it wasn't meant to be."

Yousuf's suspension by the Pakistan Cricket Board is for an indefinite period and in theory, both he and Younus Khan could be back for the series in England which commences in June. The seven punished players can also appeal against their punishments and already Rana Naved ul Hasan, Shoab Malik, Shahid Afridi and Younus Khan have made their intentions clear that they wish to appeal against the decisions by the Board.

Despite Yousuf appearing on national television shortly after returning to Pakistan following the tour of Australia and stating that he felt that one player spolied unity on the tour, he stated to PakPassion.net that he has no issues and axes to grind against any of his team mates. "I have no issues or axes to grind with team mates, however I am disappointed with my treatment by those in authority and that is the reason why I want to retire from international cricket".